Martin Shalli

Who is Martin Shalli?

Lieutenant General Martin Shalli is a former Namibian diplomat and military commander. In 2005, he was appointed to the post of High Commissioner of Namibia to Zambia by then President Sam Nujoma but was recalled in October 2006 by his successor, Hifikepunye Pohamba and appointed Chief of the Namibia Defence Force. He replaced controversial former NDF commander Solomon Huwala. He was replaced as High Commissioner to Zambia by regional councillor Solomon Witbooi. In July 2009, Shalli was suspended by President Pohamba due to "serious allegations of irregularities". Without the alleged irregularities being proven, refuted, or even officially substantiated, Shalli retired with full military privileges in January 2011.