National Assembly speaker Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila has declared a conflict of interest and recused herself from questions regarding a N$579-million Development Bank of Namibia debt write-off. The decision was made after Affirmative Repositioning leader Job Amupanda gave notice that he would question finance minister Ericah Shafudah on 8 October about the write-off and allegations of preferential treatment involving companies linked to businessman Onesmus Amadhila, Kuugongelwa-Amadhila's husband.
Amupanda had sought to question Shafudah about the write-off and allegations of preferential treatment, citing concerns over the Development Bank of Namibia's loan book, which has declined from N$6.2 billion to N$5.8 billion, with credit losses exceeding N$1.5 billion. He specifically wanted Shafudah to clarify whether Outapi Shopping Centre (Pty) Ltd and Tona Trade Holdings CC, with non-performing loans exceeding N$180 million, are among the beneficiaries of the N$579 million write-off or remain subject to recovery.
Kuugongelwa-Amadhila prevented Amupanda's notice from being tabled, citing a conflict of interest due to her family being mentioned. She advised Amupanda to table the questions when deputy speaker Phillipus Katamelo presides over the assembly. Amupanda, however, described her actions as concerning and hindering parliamentary work, arguing that the questions are essential in light of the Anti-Corruption Commission's 2024/25 annual report, which states that 45% of reported cases involve abuse of power for gratification.
The Anti-Corruption Commission's report also notes that corruption involving the abuse of public office often goes unreported due to intimidation and alleged protection of politically connected individuals. Amupanda is seeking a comprehensive report and full list of corporate and individual beneficiaries of the write-off to be submitted to parliament, aiming to ensure transparency and accountability in the matter.
The Development Bank of Namibia's debt write-off has raised concerns about the potential misuse of public funds and the need for greater oversight. As the bank's loan book continues to decline, the write-off has sparked questions about the bank's lending practices and the impact on the country's economy. The matter is expected to be taken up again when Katamelo presides over the assembly.
Kuugongelwa-Amadhila's recusal has highlighted the challenges of balancing personal and public interests in Namibia's parliamentary processes. The incident has also underscored the importance of ensuring that those in positions of power are held accountable for their actions, and that transparency and accountability are maintained in all aspects of governance.
The issue is likely to continue to be debated in the coming weeks, with Amupanda and other lawmakers pushing for greater transparency and accountability in the matter. The outcome will be closely watched, as it has implications for the country's governance and the management of public funds.
Key points
- The Namibian speaker recused herself due to a conflict of interest.
- The write-off has raised concerns about potential misuse of public funds.
- The matter is expected to continue to be debated in the coming weeks.
