Former Namibian health minister Bernard Haufiku has raised concerns about the handling of a corruption case from 2016, known as the ‘healthrot’ scandal, by outgoing Anti-Corruption Commission director general Paulus Noa. In an interview with The Namibian, Haufiku questioned whether Noa protected a person implicated in the alleged corruption at the Ministry of Health. This allegation comes as Noa defends the ACC’s record on handling corruption cases.
The ‘healthrot’ scandal involves alleged fraudulent procurement at the Ministry of Health between 2016 and 2017. Haufiku submitted a 51-page document with facts and evidence to Noa’s office nearly a decade ago but claims no action has been taken. He suggests that one of those implicated may have a personal connection to Noa, which could have hindered the investigation. However, Haufiku did not name the person or Noa’s alleged friend.
Noa has defended the ACC’s handling of corruption cases, stating that they cannot pursue individuals based solely on public pressure. According to Noa, investigations must establish evidence that justifies referring a matter to the prosecuting authority for a decision on whether charges should be brought. He emphasized that he did not protect anyone and informed the new director general, Bryan Eiseb, about the ongoing investigations into the Ministry of Health before he left.
Responding to Haufiku’s allegations, Noa expressed surprise that he did not raise the issue directly with him. Noa stated that Haufiku knows him well and could have contacted him if he suspected something was being hidden. The investigations into the allegations of corruption in the Ministry of Health and Social Services are still ongoing, according to Noa.
Haufiku insists that his complaint should not be dismissed as simply a matter of public pressure. He describes it as a serious case with evidence of wrongdoing and offers to provide a copy of the 51-page document to Noa or his successor if needed. Haufiku believes the case deserves full attention from the responsible authorities and the public commission.
The case has been outstanding for nearly a decade, and Haufiku is urging Noa to provide answers. He questions whether Noa failed to act due to a personal connection to one of those implicated. The Namibian nation is still waiting for a resolution in this matter, which has significant implications for accountability in the Ministry of Health.
The allegations made by Haufiku against Noa highlight the challenges faced by anti-corruption agencies in Namibia. The case underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in addressing corruption, particularly in the public sector. The new director general, Bryan Eiseb, will likely face pressure to resolve the case and demonstrate the ACC’s commitment to investigating corruption.
Key points
- - Former health minister Bernard Haufiku alleges Paulus Noa protected someone implicated in the ‘healthrot’ scandal. - Haufiku submitted a 51-page document with evidence of alleged corruption in 2017 but claims no action was taken. - Noa defends the ACC’s handling of the case, citing the need for evidence to justify taking action against individuals.
