The decision was made by the Namibian President Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, with his termination taking effect on Wednesday, 23 April 2025.
A statement by the Namibian Presidency on Sunday said, “By virtue of the powers vested in the President by Article 32(6) of the Constitution of the Republic of Namibia,President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has relieved Hon. Dr. Mac-Albert Hengari of his duties as Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform.
“The termination of tenure takes effect from Wednesday, 23 April 2025 when Hon. Dr. Mac-Albert Hengari should have tendered his resignation. Hon. Hengari has also been withdrawn from the National Assembly.”
Hengari was accused of offering a N$230,000 bribe to a 21-year-old woman who had accused him of multiple instances of rape. The bribe allegedly aimed to silence the victim, leading to Hengari’s arrest after the payment was made.
The police investigation into Hengari has revealed 11 criminal charges, including rape, kidnapping, and assault by threat. Additional charges include crimen injuria, abduction, and violations of the Immoral Practices Act, with the allegations stemming from incidents dating back to 2019.
Hengari is accused of raping the victim, who was a minor at the time, on several occasions up until September 2024.
According to The Namibian, the 21-year-old victim, who is currently under police protection due to suicidal thoughts linked to the traumatic events, has been relocated to a safe house.
National police spokesperson Deputy Commissioner Kauna Shikwambi confirmed Hengari’s status as a suspect in the ongoing investigation, which continues to unfold.
Police Inspector General Joseph Shikongo further confirmed that the victim, along with her mother and baby, has been handed over to a social worker for ongoing support as the investigation progresses. Sahara Reporters
