Windhoek starts utility disconnections for unpaid bills
Human rights lawyer Norman Tjombe questions the legality of cutting off water and electricity to residents and businesses with outstanding municipal accounts.
The City of Windhoek began disconnecting water and electricity services on Thursday for residents and businesses with outstanding municipal bills. The municipality stated that the disconnections, which affect customers across all suburbs, are part of its credit control policy and municipal laws. Customers are urged to settle their accounts or make payment arrangements to avoid losing essential services.
Human rights lawyer Norman Tjombe challenged the legality of the mass disconnections, warning that cutting off water could violate constitutional rights and expose vulnerable populations to health risks like cholera and typhoid. He noted the disconnections are insensitive given the financial pressures from the foot-and-mouth disease outbreak, which has impacted rural livelihoods and employment in the meat industry.
The municipality's spokesperson, Lydia Amutenya, stated the disconnections were prompted by continued non-payment and growing debt. Namibia's Water Resources Management Act recognizes equitable access to safe drinking water as a basic human right, while local authorities also have powers to disconnect services for non-payment.
Why it mattersResidents and businesses in Windhoek face potential loss of water and electricity due to unpaid municipal bills, with a lawyer raising concerns about human rights and health impacts.