Land disputes have escalated in Okahandja, with activist Johannes |Gaseb accusing the Town Council of political favouritism in the recent allocation of erven, a claim the municipality denies.

In a formal objection addressed to the CEO and the Minister of Urban and Rural Development, |Gaseb described the allocations, published on June 11 under Notice 01/2025, as “unjust and politically skewed,” alleging that well-connected businesspeople were prioritised over residents who have waited years for land.

He also referenced a 2020 court settlement that ordered land to be allocated to residents who opposed eviction during the COVID-19 crisis, claiming the municipality has failed to honour that agreement.

He demands the suspension of the disputed deals, an independent investigation, and a transparent system that prioritises ordinary citizens.

Municipal spokesperson Master Penna defended the process, stating it was conducted per council procedures and laws, with most erven allocated for industrial or business use. CEO Alphons Tjitombo rejected the claims of favouritism and urged that any concerns be formally submitted with supporting evidence.

Meanwhile, an anonymous resident from the 5 Rand settlement told NBC News that they are losing a fully paid-off plot, which is allegedly being reassigned to someone else.

Despite municipal assurances, │Gaseb insists the allocation process raises serious red flags.