The Ministry of Information and Communication Technology (MICT) says it had nothing to do with former New Era Managing Editor, Johnathan Beukes, leaving the employ of the newspaper.

The ministry says its contact with public enterprises ends with the boards of these entities and at the policy level, adding that it does not interfere in the internal affairs of the New Era.

Beukes on Monday issued a statement to declare that he is no longer with the newspaper, emphasising that he did not resign but has agreed with the company to part ways.

Beukes said his departure is detailed in a mutual separation agreement, which will remain private as per the stipulations of the agreement.

In the statement, Beukes expressed concern over what he calls the deterioration of media freedom and expression and the intolerance for grassroots voices, especially minority voices, and the public interest in the country of late.

He stated that decisions made by the government in the time immediately after President Hage Geingob's death left a lot to be desired.

But the Presidency refuted the claim over the alleged deterioration of press freedom since the death of President Hage Geingob in February this year.

The Presidency labelled this assertion as false, stating that President Nangolo Mbumba has upheld a commitment to freedom of speech and expression as enshrined in the Constitution.

It says Namibia remains widely respected for press freedom in Africa and globally and states that President Mbumba will continue to champion the country's cause.

In support of Beukes, the Namibia Media Professionals Union said it is time for real reforms to ensure that editorial independence is safeguarded and backed by meaningful accountability.

The Union's Secretary General, Jemima Beukes, stated that Johnathan Beukes' departure from the New Era has sparked concerns over press freedom and access to unbiased information.