It stems from an article published in the newspaper's last edition of 2007 with the heading 'Katiti charged with theft'.

The Namibian has instructed lawyers to defend the action.

The front-page article, published on December 21 2007, written by The Namibian's reporter, Adam Hartman, included allegations by Regina Kotchanova, a representative of Remax Properties, a business bought by Katiti last year.

She told The Namibian she had decided to lay a charge of theft against Katiti because he allegedly sold all the Remax office equipment and furniture, valued at about N$100 000.

She alleged Katiti was in breach of a contract they signed in 2007 in which the Remax franchise was sold to him and his business, Beauhomes Real Estate.

Kotchanova said it was agreed that Katiti would buy and take over the business with all the equipment and furniture as from June 1, and that he would then pay the last instalment of N$775 000 in September 2007.

She claimed he did not pay this amount as he alleged that the former owner still owed the Receiver of Revenue money.

In the meantime, according to her, Katiti sold all the office equipment and furniture.

The report included a statement by Katiti's legal representative, Metcalf Legal Practitioners, that Kotchanova and her husband (Kotchanov, former owner of Remax properties) had not paid taxes since 2002.

With regard to the office furniture, non-permanent fittings, and equipment - these were part of the franchise agreement, and were included with the acquisition of the franchise, according to the statement.

Katiti now claims that the article was "wrongful, malicious and defamatory" in that the wording "intended and was understood by the readers of the newspaper that [Katiti] is dishonest" implying that he is a criminal; that he illegally sold office equipment and furniture not belonging to him for personal gain; and that he purchased a business but breached the agreement with the seller and as such is a dishonest person.

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