By Elezo Libanda.
Katima Mulilo, 10 July – The Rent Control Board, established in 2018, remains inactive, leaving tenants at the mercy of landlords who subject them to inhumane practices. The absence of protective laws exacerbates the situation, allowing landlords in Namibia to unilaterally raise rents or evict tenants without following proper legal procedures.
In stark contrast to other countries where rent is regulated, Namibians can wake up to sudden rent increases or eviction notices without any recourse. Facing financial constraints, many tenants cannot afford legal representation, forcing them to comply with landlords’ actions. If the rent control board were operational, tenants would have a platform to seek assistance and support.
Social media commentators have criticized the authorities, accusing them of reneging on their initial plans to establish an active rent control board. This apparent lack of progress may be attributed to the influence of lawmakers who are also landlords and benefit from the exploitation of tenants without experiencing its detrimental effects.
In 2018, the then Minister of Industrialisation, Trade, and SME Development, Tjekero Tweya, announced the appointment of members to the rent control boards in the regions of Oshana, Kavango East, Erongo, and Khomas. These appointments were made in accordance with the Rent Ordinance Act of 1977.
This decision came about after the Affirmative Repositioning movement took the government to court for non-compliance with the ordinance act. The question now remains whether the rent control board will become an active presence in the lives of many tenants, or if exploitation will persist. – Namibia Daily News
