Namibia’s President Nandi-Ndaitwah Fires Deputy PM, Takes Over Key Mines Ministry
WINDHOEK – In a sudden cabinet reshuffle, Namibian President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has removed Natangwe Ithete from his positions as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Industry, Mines and Energy.
The decision, announced in a statement from the presidency on Tuesday, comes just months after Ithete was appointed to the roles in March as part of President Nandi-Ndaitwah’s new administration. No reason was provided for his dismissal.
To ensure stability in the critical sector, the President will personally assume control of the ministry.
“In the interest of ensuring continuity and effective coordination within this key sector, President Nandi-Ndaitwah will assume responsibility for the Ministry of Industry, Mines and Energy, effective immediately,” the presidential statement read.
The Ministry of Industry, Mines and Energy is a pivotal portfolio in Namibia’s economy, overseeing the country’s significant mining and energy resources, including recent major discoveries of fossil fuels and critical minerals like uranium.
Despite his removal from the executive, Natangwe Ithete remains a member of the Namibian parliament. The move underscores President Nandi-Ndaitwah’s direct approach to managing key governmental functions since taking office.
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