The Board of Directors of TransNamib Holdings Limited has placed the company’s Chief Executive Officer Desmond Van Jaarsveld and Executive for Engineering and Technical Services Bertus Eksteen on precautionary leave pending the outcome of an independent investigation.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the Board said the decision was taken following the necessary due process and in consultation with the Minister of Works and Transport.

According to the Board, the measure is intended to facilitate an objective and thorough investigation and should not be construed as an indication of guilt or wrongdoing by either executive.

The state-owned railway operator emphasised that its day-to-day operations will continue without disruption despite the temporary absence of the two senior executives. “The daily operations of the company will proceed unhindered and operational matters will continue as per usual,” the statement noted.

To safeguard the integrity of the investigation and protect the privacy of those involved, the company said no further details would be disclosed at this stage. The Board also announced the appointment of Mr Kristian Hamutenya as Acting Chief Executive Officer while the investigation process is underway.

TransNamib stated that the action reflects its commitment to proper corporate governance and accountability while ensuring continuity in the delivery of services to customers and stakeholders.

Further updates are expected once the independent investigation has been concluded.

By Rudi Bowe