Namibian President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has dismissed Agriculture Minister Mac-Albert Hengari over serious criminal allegations, marking her administration’s first major political scandal just weeks into her presidency.
Hengari was arrested on Saturday in connection with allegations that he raped a 16-year-old girl five years ago.
Police say he was taken into custody after allegedly attempting to bribe the now 21-year-old victim to drop the charges.
In a statement by State House on Monday, Nandi-Ndaitwah invoked Article 32(6) of the Namibian Constitution to formally relieve Hengari of his duties as Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform.
The statement also confirmed his removal from the National Assembly, where he served as a presidential nominee under the ruling SWAPO party.
“The termination of tenure takes effect from Wednesday, 23 April 2025 when Hengari should have tendered his resignation,” the presidential statement read.
The former minister, who denies any wrongdoing, appeared in a Windhoek magistrates’ court on Monday and was denied bail.
He now faces multiple charges including rape, kidnapping, assault and obstruction of justice.
Authorities cited the risk of witness tampering and flight as reasons for keeping him in custody. His next court appearance is scheduled for June 3.
Hengari’s arrest and dismissal have shaken the political establishment and cast a shadow over Nandi-Ndaitwah’s early days in office.
Sworn in last month, she is Namibia’s first female president – her leadership hailed as a new era in the country’s political history.
The incident is likely to test her commitment to transparency and accountability.
Political analysts say the swift action by the presidency may signal a zero-tolerance stance on corruption and abuse although questions remain about how the ruling party will handle the fallout internally.
JN/APA