Community activist Johannes Gaseb has raised concerns over what he describes as the unlawful conduct of RedForce Namibia, accusing the debt-management company of overstepping its mandate by cutting off residents' water supply in Okahandja.

Gaseb said RedForce, which is contracted only to issue notices and facilitate municipal debt collection, has been moving from house to house closing water meters, including those belonging to residents who use prepaid utilities. 

According to Gaseb, several households have had their water cut for arrears ranging between N$2,000 and N$5,000, even though they purchase their water and electricity through prepaid systems.

He labelled the practice unlawful, unreasonable, and inhumane, claiming the company has also attempted to disconnect electricity in the past, despite having no authority to do so.

A video that went viral recently showed community members, including Gaseb, confronting RedForce staff who allegedly attempted to shut off water at a private residence.

Gaseb further expressed concern after RedForce was seen driving with an individual wearing what appeared to be an Okahandja Town Council uniform. 

He questioned whether the person is an actual municipal employee and called for clarity from the authorities.

Under municipal procedures, he said, the company may only deliver written notices when accounts are in arrears.

Gaseb announced that, going forward, only verified employees of the Okahandja Town Council, wearing official uniforms and using municipal vehicles, should carry out water disconnections where legally justified. 

He pointed out that the municipality recently acquired vehicles worth about N$5 million, saying there is no reason for RedForce to transport municipal staff.

Although Namibia's national elections are approaching, Gaseb insisted that his stance is not politically motivated but focused on protecting the rights, dignity, and basic needs of residents.

RedForce Chief Administration & Human Resource Officer clarified that RedForce's operations in Okahandja, including water disconnections, are carried out strictly within the lawful mandate set out in its procurement contract with the municipality. 

Selma Nangombe noted that water disconnections are clearly provided for in both the contract and the municipality's Credit Control and Debt Collection Policy and that all actions are taken under full municipal oversight.

Nangombe explained that RedForce has assisted the municipality with authorised water disconnections for more than two years, during which the municipality has been fully aware of and actively involved in the process.

If RedForce had acted unlawfully or beyond its mandate, she said, the municipality would have intervened immediately.