Prime Minister Elijah Ngurare has defended the government’s handling of the telecommunications regulator’s decision not to approve a license for the US-owned satellite-based internet service, Starlink.

Dr Ngurare stressed the importance of upholding Namibia’s laws without external influence.

He was responding to a question from PDM leader McHenry Venaani, who claimed that the government’s response was weak and that the official explanation for the disapproval fell short.

Venaani, however, applauded the government’s decision but argued that the Prime Minister should have delivered a formal ministerial statement to the National Assembly explaining what led to the decision.

“I am asking this question because, if your ambassadors are not telling you today, there are people calling us, lobbying us— influential individuals— asking, ‘Why is this happening in your country? Should we still bring investment?’ All I am asking is that the government must come forward and clearly explain its position so that investment is not harmed by decisions we take, but rather that we communicate our stance clearly and unequivocally as a country.”

Dr Ngurare responded that approvals and rejections are handled in line with established legal frameworks and should not be elevated to parliamentary statements simply based on the profile of the applicant.

Addressing fears of geopolitical fallout, the Prime Minister said Namibia would not allow external pressure to dictate its decisions.

He emphasised that the country’s sovereignty and legal framework must be respected by all entities seeking to operate locally.

“We need to be consistent. I find it problematic that we are expected to bend our norms because of the personalities involved in applications, especially when they are rejected. In answering your question, let me say we will reflect on it. However, if someone believes that, because of geopolitical connections, they can trample on the principles and laws of Namibia, then all of us—regardless of our circumstances—must stand firm and insist that anyone wishing to do business here must comply with the laws of the country.”

Dr Ngurare added that while expanding internet access is critical, it must be done in a way that benefits Namibians in the long term, rather than prioritising external commercial interests.