The issue of illegal occupation of government flats in Namibia has taken a complex turn, with law enforcement officers being among those found to be occupying the properties unlawfully. According to Zaraida Haufiku, a senior housing officer at the Ministry of Works and Transport, the presence of these officers makes it challenging for the ministry to address the issue. Haufiku made these remarks after several government flats in Windhoek's Ausspannplatz were welded shut due to alleged illegal occupations.
The problem of illegal occupation has been ongoing, with Works and Transport Minister Veikko Nekundi previously issuing a deadline for people to vacate the properties. Despite this, many have failed to comply, with some even finding ways to bypass essential services such as electricity and water. Haufiku explained that when the municipality attempts to disconnect these services, the occupants often find ways to restore them, resulting in additional costs for the ministry.
One of the illegal occupants, a police officer who wished to remain anonymous, has been residing in the flat for over a year. The officer cited financial difficulties and family circumstances as the reasons for moving into the flat. With a significant amount of debt and being the sole breadwinner for her family, the officer expressed her struggles. This case highlights the complexities of the issue, with some occupants being public servants who claim they are facing genuine difficulties.
Another tenant, Litta Ipinge, a cleaner at the Ministry of Defence, has been occupying a government flat since 2015. Ipinge claims to have applied for the flat through the proper process in 2016 but was told she needed to reapply. Her situation raises questions about the efficiency of the application process and the management of government flats. The presence of public servants like Ipinge among the illegal occupants adds to the challenge of addressing the issue.
According to Ellah Nghishongo, Deputy Director of Fixed Assets Management, approximately 80 people are reportedly occupying government flats illegally. The government has been working with the high court of Namibia to evict these occupants, with the civil litigation process being handled by the office of the government attorney. Nghishongo emphasized the need for public servants to seek alternative accommodation and apply for government rental subsidies.
Nghishongo advised public servants to explore private rental options, with the government able to subsidize up to 20 percent of the rental amount. This move aims to reduce the demand for government flats and encourage public servants to seek alternative housing solutions. The government is working to address the issue of illegal occupation, but it remains a significant challenge.
The issue of uniformed forces occupying government flats illegally highlights the need for a comprehensive review of the management of government properties and the application process for public servants. The government must balance the need to provide housing for its employees with the need to ensure that these properties are used for their intended purpose.
Key points
- Law enforcement officers are among those occupying government flats illegally in Windhoek.
- Approximately 80 people are reportedly occupying government flats illegally in Namibia.
- The government is offering subsidies for public servants to seek alternative accommodation.
