Walvis bay: The Erongo Regional Council (ERC) on Wednesday reinstated Benitha Imbamba as chairperson of the council, following a High Court ruling ordering her return to the position after a vote of no confidence was overturned earlier this year. Imbamba, the constituency councillor for Arandis, was voted out as chairperson during a special ordinary council meeting in March 2025.

According to Namibia Press Agency, in July 2025, the High Court ruled in her favour, instructing the Council to reinstate her. However, this was defied by some members of the council, including Walvis Bay Rural Constituency councillor Florian Donatus, who refused to accept the court ruling.

In a statement issued by ERC Chief Regional Officer Sam Ntelamo on Wednesday, the council confirmed it has resolved to fully implement the court order, allowing Imbamba to serve as chairperson for the remainder of the current term. The development coincides with the resignation of Donatus, both as councillor and chairperson, a position he held following Imbamba’s removal.

Donatus tendered his resignation effective 15 October 2025. In his resignation letter, Donatus cited persistent political interference by the Minister of Urban and Rural Development, which he said made it impossible to effectively carry out his duties as a councillor and chairperson.

His resignation follows months of political tensions and public debates surrounding the legality of Imbamba’s removal and the leadership vacuum that ensued. The council has since extended its appreciation to Donatus for his service to the Walvis Bay Rural Constituency and his contributions to the Council during his tenure.

‘The ERC remains focused on delivering quality service to the residents of the region and will continue to operate in accordance with its mandate and the principles of good governance,’ Ntelamo noted.