Concerns over press freedom have been raised after journalist Jemima Beukes was removed from State House on Monday, shortly after questioning President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah about allegations that Namibia’s oil sector is being managed by members of the President’s family.

Beukes, a freelance journalist and founder of the independent online publication The Whistle, posed the question during a photo break at the official opening of Cabinet.

In a statement, the Landless People’s Movement (LPM) said it was concerned by what it described as an abuse of power and an attempt to silence journalists carrying out their public duty.

“The removal of a journalist for asking a national interest question sends a worrying signal,” the party said.

The NMT Media Foundation acknowledged the Presidency’s media release in which it reaffirmed its commitment to press freedom, saying such assurances are welcome. 

However, the Foundation stressed that commitments must be demonstrated through conduct, not statements alone.

NMT further raised concern over Beukes’ treatment, alleging that she was physically manhandled, threatened with arrest and interfered with while doing her work. 

The Namibia Media Professional Workers Union (NAMPWU) condemned the incident, stating that journalism is not a crime. The union warned that treating reporters as security threats signals a dangerous authoritarian shift. 

The Presidency released a statement after the event and said, "Once the Head of State has indicated that a session has concluded or that questions should be directed through the appropriate official channels, such guidance is expected to be respected."

The Presidency further stated that established security protocols and the professional judgement of trained uniformed personnel will guide the handling of matters.

This is in circumstances where conduct is considered unbecoming of the standards expected within State House or where actions are assessed by the security personnel as potentially compromising the safety, dignity or orderly functions of the Presidency.