Eba Kandovazu
THE Windhoek High Court found that a decision by the All People’s Party (APP) to recall its former Grootfontein Councillor in 2017 was not procedural as he wasn’t accorded an opportunity to a disciplinary hearing.
As a result, the APP was ordered to pay an amount of N$202 790 to Stanislaus Uiseb.
Judge Hanellie Prinsloo also found that the party did not act in accordance with the principles of natural justice.
Reacting to the judgment, APP’ Secretary General Vincent Kanyetu said that a management meeting is scheduled for tomorrow.
A decision on whether or not to appeal the judgment will be made then, he said.
According to him, Uiseb was recalled because he has been failing in his duties to, amongst others, attend management meetings, failing to pay his monthly N$200 contribution to the party, being intoxicated and putting the party in disrepute, as well as failing to provide feedback to the branch.
“The APP failed to afford the plaintiff the right to be heard and to answer to the allegations as it is expected of it. The APP relied heavily on complaints, petitions and a letter dated 22 January 2017 submitted to its branch leaders as to the behaviour and untoward conduct of the plaintiff, which resulted in the management committee resolving to recall him. However, the petition and letter was not provided to this court,” Judge Prinsloo found.
According to her, the argument is mere hearsay, which should not be considered as no Branch leaders were also called to testify as witnesses to corroborate the allegations.
