Windhoek: Namibia’s President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has dismissed Deputy Prime Minister and Industry Minister Natangwe Ithete, the presidency announced on Sunday. President Nandi-Ndaitwah “made an executive decision to relieve Honourable Natangwe Ithete of his duties as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Industry, Mines and Energy, with immediate effect,” the Namibian presidency stated in a message shared on the US social media platform Facebook.

According to Anadolu Agency, President Nandi-Ndaitwah will assume the responsibilities of the industry, mines, and energy minister “in the interest of ensuring continuity and effective coordination within this key sector.” While the presidency acknowledged Ithete’s contributions to the Southern African nation, it confirmed that he will continue to serve as a member of parliament. The statement also reiterated the presidency’s dedication to “sound governance, accountability, and the effective implementation of national priorities.”

Ithete, who has been a member of parliament since 2015, represents the ruling South West Africa People’s Organization (SWAPO) party, which has led Namibia since its independence from Germany in 1990. He previously served as deputy finance minister under the late President Hage Geingob until 2020 and was chairperson of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Economics and Public Administration from 2020, with his term set to continue until 2025.

President Nandi-Ndaitwah appointed Ithete as deputy prime minister and industry, mines, and energy minister following her inauguration in March. The 72-year-old president won the November elections, securing victory without a runoff, succeeding Nangolo Mbumba, who served as interim president since the passing of Hage Geingob in February 2024.