Shipwikineni demands termination of RedForce

Former Swapo loyalist Reinhold Shipwikineni has demanded that the Walvis Bay municipality cancel its contract with RedForce Debt Management.

In a letter of demand dated 23 June, seen by The Namibian, Shipwikineni argues that RedForce has been abusing its powers to disconnect residents’ water without prior notification.

“It has come to my attention that residents’ water services have been suspended without adequate prior notice, which is a violation of basic human rights and standard practice. I understand the municipality’s need to collect outstanding debts, however, the suspension of essential services like water without sufficient warning is unacceptable.

“This practice disproportionately affects vulnerable residents and can have severe consequences on their health and well-being,” he says.

Shipwikineni further calls for an audience with the municipality and a written response outlining the steps the municipality will take to address the matter within five working days prior to this letter of demand.

He says he has substantial evidence to prove in a court of law what he terms as despicable behaviours and unprofessional activities by RedForce against Walvis Bay residents.

He demands the reinstatement of water services to all residents whose water services have been suspended without proper notice, with all unnecessary interests written off.

Shipwikineni says the municipality must approach the High Court on an urgent basis and seek immediate termination of Redforce services on or before 15 July.

“I call for the immediate termination of the contract with the current debt collection agency due to their failure to adhere to proper procedures. I urge that the municipality establish clear guidelines for debt collection practices, ensuring adequate prior notice and alternative payment arrangements are offered before any service disruptions,” he says.

Shipwikineni demands a public apology be issued to all affected residents while also calling for the appointment of a committee to investigate the grounds used to award the contract to Redforce.

lf such a committee already exists, he says, it must then be reviewed and dissolved because of the lack of public engagement regarding updates.

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