The Mineworkers Union of Namibia branch in Oranjemund is demanding that NAMDEB recognise Liana Festus as its elected Branch Chairperson after she secured 510 votes in the August elections.

NAMDEB's refusal to recognise Festus has prompted the union to challenge the decision.

Recently, the union staged a protest in Oranjemund and handed over a petition calling on Namdeb to respect the workers' choice and recognise Festus as their elected Branch Chairperson.

According to the petition, Festus previously served as a part-time shop steward at the company for two years before her recognition was withdrawn by Namdeb over alleged misconduct.

The union, however, is questioning the circumstances surrounding her removal, particularly its timing in relation to the union elections.

The petition alleges that an unnamed Namdeb management official had encouraged Festus to stand as a candidate in the elections, which were held from 18 to 31 August 2026.

The union says it submitted its list of candidates to Namdeb on 14 August, four days before the elections. The petition alleges that about two hours later, the company withdrew Festus' recognition as a part-time shop steward.

Festus denies the allegations, and the matter remains contested before the Labour Commissioner.

Despite her removal as a shop steward, Festus participated in the election and secured 510 votes.

The union says NAMDEB has since refused to recognise her as the duly elected Branch Chairperson.

It argues that Festus' removal as a part-time shop steward is separate from her election as branch chairperson.

The union is therefore demanding that NAMDEB identify the specific clause in the Recognition and Procedural Agreement, or any applicable law, that prevents Festus from taking up her elected position.

It has also requested a written response addressing the issues and demands raised in the petition.

The petition does not specify a deadline for Namdeb to respond.

NBC News contacted NAMBED Corporate Affairs Manager Grace Luvindao, who said the matter is currently under review and has been formally registered with the Office of the Labour Commissioner by Liana Festus.

Luvindao said the company considers the matter sub judice and therefore cannot comment further, as doing so could potentially prejudice the proceedings.