Residents of Tses Village in the ||Kharas Region have protested against what they describe as a lack of socio-economic development in the village.

The protesters also called for the write-off of outstanding water bills owed by pensioners, as directed by the Minister of Urban and Rural Development, James Sankwasa.

Group spokesperson Margareth Basson said residents wanted basic services and facilities, including a public library, Namcol classes during school holidays, a service station, automated teller machines and regular banking services.

They also called for after-hours electricity purchases, prepaid water, a supermarket, Agribank and a PEP Store.

The protesters accused the village council administration of maladministration, irregular tender awards and undermining the authority of elected councillors.

They further questioned the leadership of the council’s chief executive officer, Fritz Christiaan, and demanded his immediate removal.

Basson said the community was concerned about the alleged absence of the village secretary from the office without valid leave approved by the local authority councillors.

She said the situation undermined the authority of elected representatives, whom the community had mandated to address human development, poverty, unemployment, inequality and other challenges.

Tses Village Council Chairperson Lena Areas received the petition and said the council was aware of some of the issues raised.

“Some of the issues you have mentioned are known to us, and we are addressing them. The petition has been received and will be dealt with through the appropriate channels. We will come back to you soon with answers.”

Christiaan rejected the allegations, describing them as unsubstantiated and “wild”.

“I am not surprised, and I am not embarrassed. The same people sitting on the council are the same people who established this pressure group. They are simply trying to implement what they have decided.”

Christiaan said an appropriate time would come for him to take action.