RedForce defamation case against Sankwasa postponed

RedForce Debt Management CC’s N$850 000 defamation case against urban and rural development minister James Sankwasa has been postponed to November for a case management conference.

In an order delivered on Tuesday, judge Shafimana Ueitele directed Sankwasa, sued in both his official and personal capacities, to file his plea and any counterclaims by 9 October.

RedForce, a debt collection service provider, instituted five claims following a written directive issued to local authorities in August 2025, statements allegedly made to journalists and comments attributed to the minister during an online talk show.

The company is claiming N$150 000 from the minister in his official capacity over a written directive issued in August 2025. RedForce alleges that the directive, which was disseminated to local authorities across Namibia and the public, stated that the company had “caused many economic and political challenges and problems” for citizens and residents using its services.

RedForce alleges that the directive was defamatory and damaged its reputation and dignity.

The company is separately claiming N$700 000 from Sankwasa over four sets of statements allegedly made between 5 and 13 August 2025.

In its particulars of claim filed in the Windhoek High Court, RedForce quotes Sankwasa as saying: “The nation has been crying for so many years about exploitation by this company.”

The company alleges that the statements conveyed that RedForce exploited citizens, engaged in corrupt or unlawful practices and secured contracts through improper dealings.

The fifth claim relates to Sankwasa’s appearance on an online talk show on 13 August 2025. RedForce alleges that Sankwasa accused the company of political sabotage, using underground methods to undermine the ruling party, and being involved in the hijacking and infiltration of Namibia’s procurement system.

For each claim, the company seeks damages, 20% interest from the date of judgment, and full retractions and unconditional apologies within 10 days of judgment. It is also seeking legal costs.

Under Ueitele’s order, RedForce must respond to the minister’s plea by 30 October. Both parties are required to complete discovery by 6 November and submit a joint case management report by 10 November, ahead of the court hearing on 17 November.

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