Otjiwarongo residents took to the streets in protest against imposed penalties for damaged water meters and irregularities in terms of plot allocation in the area.

Aggrieved residents claimed unfair penalties are being charged, of over one thousand dollars, by the municipality.

The group further claimed that the damaged water meters are a result of the municipality not servicing these items.

Group spokesperson Marcelinus Sanambi raised many questions to the authorities.

“Why does the municipality frequently allow residents to pay N$1,550 for water meters that are defective and not damaged by residents? From which legal mechanism does the municipality get the authority to effect such payments against the residents of Otjiwarongo? Why does the municipality not service the water meters regularly to avoid meters becoming defective?”

They also questioned the about 220 vacant plots.

“The following clauses need clarity and are contested: Clause 1.1: Which property are you leasing to the residents? The contract expressly states a property if the erf. Clause 2.1: What is the implementation of the 1-year lease agreement that you want to enter into with these residents? How does the municipality justify leasing an erf the resident has been on for years on a yearly basis?” Sanambi wanted to know.

Residents further demanded clarification on the payment contracts of individuals, at an estimated N$100 per month for those living in shacks, N$250 for those living in permanent structures, and N$500 for churches and individuals with businesses.

Receiving the petition, Otjiwarongo Mayor Gottlieb Shivute said the council will respond to them within seven working days.