Prime Minister Elijah Ngurare has defended the decision to reject Starlink’s application to operate in Namibia, saying the country will not compromise its legal framework to appease international interests.
The Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN) on Monday officially declined Starlink’s bid to provide satellite internet services, rejecting both its comprehensive telecommunications service licence (ECS and ECNS) and its spectrum licence. The decision was published in the Government Gazette.
Speaking in response to parliamentary questions from McHenry Venaani, leader of the Popular Democratic Movement (PDM), Ngurare said Namibia must stand firm if external actors attempt to use geopolitical influence to bypass the law.
“Regardless of our size or economic strength, we must uphold our principles and ensure that anyone wishing to do business here complies with our laws,” Ngurare said.
Venaani criticised the absence of a formal ministerial statement on the matter, asking when the government would address the nation directly through Parliament. He also questioned the consistency of Namibia’s 51% local ownership requirement, highlighting comparable entities such as Usapine, and warning of potential international backlash.
The PDM leader further pressed for clarity on measures to ensure continued connectivity for rural schools and underserved areas, given the rejection of Starlink’s licence.
Ngurare rejected claims that Starlink’s application warranted exceptional treatment.
“The suggestion that this transaction is unique or exceptionally important to the extent that it should unsettle international markets is misplaced. If we begin to suspend or bypass our laws because of external pressure, we risk applying those laws inconsistently,” he said.
The prime minister stressed that Namibian resources, including communications infrastructure, must benefit the local population.
“When we speak about resources such as oil and gas, we emphasise that they must be managed in a way that allows Namibians to take control and benefit,” Ngurare said.
He reiterated that compliance with Namibian law is non-negotiable, regardless of an investor’s influence or profile.
“If we are to ensure that Namibian children have access to connectivity, it must be done in a way that benefits Namibians, not in a way that prioritises profit for external interests. Investors must comply with our laws. Those who disregard them should not expect favourable treatment,” he said.
Ngurare also addressed concerns about consistency in law enforcement, citing examples such as Rössing’s historical shareholding structure, which was established long before the current government. “The dispensation at the time made those decisions. That does not mean we cannot revisit such arrangements,” he said.
On the question of rural connectivity, Ngurare said the ministry of information and CRAN are actively addressing the issue, with funds dedicated to expanding access to communication services in remote areas.
In conclusion, the prime minister underscored Namibia’s commitment to principled governance: “This country may be small, but it is firm in its principles. Those who comply with our laws are welcome to do business here. Those who disregard them should not expect favourable treatment.”
nikanor@nmh-hub.com.na
