Katima mulilo: Embattled Katima Mulilo Town Council CEO Raphael Liswaniso has hit back at his employer, claiming that a fresh suspension-issued immediately after he won a legal battle to be reinstated-is a targeted attempt to ruin his professional integrity.
According to Namibia Press Agency, Liswaniso's legal representative, Advocate Puteho Kangumu, expressed strong disapproval of the actions taken by both the Katima Mulilo Town Council and the Minister of Urban and Rural Development, James Sankwasa, during a media briefing on Wednesday. The controversy ensued following an arbitration award that initially mandated the lifting of Liswaniso's suspension. Despite this, the CEO was immediately subjected to another suspension upon his return to duty. Advocate Kangumu characterized the move as 'mero motu' (on its own motion) and a direct interference with the rule of law.
Kangumu argued, "Such conduct is deemed solely to instigate and influence the public negatively about my client's character. It is unfortunate that the honourable minister... conducted himself in this manner in breach of his oath of office." The legal team criticized Sankwasa for approving the new suspension without a formal recommendation from the council, asserting that this does not meet the expected standards of conduct for a high-ranking official.
In addition, Kangumu contended that the council's absence from the original arbitration proceedings amounted to a waiver of their right to contest the decision. By imposing a new suspension immediately thereafter, he argues the council is undermining the integrity of the justice system. The defense also claims that the current charges are invalid as they were allegedly compiled by a third party and presented to Liswaniso without an official council resolution, demonstrating a blatant disregard for established mechanisms of dispute resolution.
Responding to these allegations, Katima Mulilo Mayor Kabende Kabende refuted claims of a personal vendetta, asserting that the council is merely adhering to internal due process concerning serious charges against the CEO, with ongoing investigations. The mayor emphasized that Liswaniso has not been terminated from his position.
"This is an internal due process that has to be followed until the end and what was ordered by the arbitrator, as in pay, will be implemented. There's no witch hunt... or reputational damage issues...," stated Kabende.