Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Taati Niilenge
Published on 2024-03-28 09:38:55
Residents of Walvis Bay took to the streets on Wednesday to protest against the exorbitant charges levied by Redforce Debt Management in an attempt to recover outstanding debts owed to the municipality. The municipality enlisted the services of the debt recovery agency in 2023 due to difficulties in collecting residents’ debts. However, residents argue that the implementation of Redforce’s services is unjust and exacerbates their financial burdens.
Complaints from residents include reports of receiving bills with additional charges totaling up to N$80,000 for water supply, attributed to Redforce’s actions. Some residents claim they are being deprived of essential water services altogether. Elvis Goseb, a representative of the residents, expressed concerns about the impracticality of using a debt management company during a time of widespread economic hardship.
Goseb raised questions regarding the legality of the credit control policy enforced by the municipality, stating that it had not been formally approved by the council or properly disclosed to residents. He also questioned the procurement process that led to the selection of Redforce and accused the municipality of benefiting elites through this arrangement. Goseb criticized Redforce for threatening residents with disconnection of water supply unless 75% of the outstanding debt is paid, deeming it unlawful.
The residents demand transparency and accountability from the municipality, urging for the cancellation of Redforce’s contract and the removal of the 12% surcharge on outstanding accounts. They also propose alternative solutions such as a 50/50 debt recovery payment plan or the introduction of prepaid water meters. Additionally, residents insist that debts accumulated during the Covid-19 pandemic, under the government’s state of emergency directive, should be written off.
Furthermore, residents express frustration over the breach of customer confidentiality by the municipality, alleging unauthorized disclosure of private information to third parties without consent. They highlight the lack of public consultation and demand that the council engage in meaningful dialogue with residents on critical issues that affect them.
The petition, delivered to acting chief executive Frans !Gonteb, stipulates a deadline of 5 April for a response from the council. !Gonteb assured that the matter would be discussed, and feedback would be provided accordingly.
In conclusion, the residents of Walvis Bay are standing united in their fight against what they perceive as unjust practices by Redforce Debt Management and the municipality. Their demands for fair treatment, accountability, and thoughtful solutions reflect a community determined to protect their rights and interests in the face of adversity.
Read the original article on The Namibian
