The Roads Contractor Company (RCC) has placed its acting chief executive, Dasius Nelumbu, on leave effective 28 September, as it investigates his involvement in a N$17 million fuel deal. The deal involves undelivered fuel paid to entities linked to fugitive businessman Victor Malima. This move comes after The Namibian reported that RCC, under Nelumbu's watch, had paid N$30 million for fuel, of which N$17 million worth had not been delivered.
The fuel transactions in question involve companies linked to individuals implicated in the ongoing Namibia National Petroleum Corporation corruption case, including Simeon Handjene and Malima. RCC launched an investigation into the matter on 18 September. An email seen by The Namibian, titled 'Internal Circular Addressed to All Employees', shows RCC board chairperson Lea Namoloh informing employees of Nelumbu's leave.
According to the email, Nelumbu will be on leave until further notice, with Martin Shivute acting on his behalf and granted full executive authority by the board. Shivute will perform and exercise all duties, powers, and responsibilities associated with Nelumbu's position. Namoloh requested supervisors and managers to ensure the communication is brought to the attention of employees without email access.
Sources close to the matter describe Nelumbu's leave as "forced", suggesting the board's decision may be linked to the ongoing investigation. Before his leave, Nelumbu was removed from his accounting officer powers. His contract is understood to be ending later this year, and sources suggest the board may allow it to expire rather than renew it, effectively removing him from the position.
Lea Namoloh told The Namibian she was not aware of Nelumbu's leave or his link to the ongoing investigations. She expressed uncertainty about the source of the information. Meanwhile, sources indicate that Nelumbu has been receiving the full salary attached to the executive officer position, rather than an acting allowance, following a board decision.
This arrangement implies that Nelumbu cannot simply return to his position once the investigation concludes, as it would need to be filled through a formal recruitment process. Should he wish to return, he would have to apply and be interviewed. One source describes this arrangement as a "diplomatic" way for his tenure to end while remaining on the company's payroll.
The scandal involves payments made between September 2023 and July 2025, including transactions personally approved by Nelumbu. Documents seen by The Namibian provide further insight into the transactions. The RCC's decision to place Nelumbu on leave and investigate his involvement in the fuel deal raises questions about the company's oversight and accountability.
Key points
- RCC's acting CEO Dasius Nelumbu placed on leave amid probe into N$17m fuel deal linked to fugitive businessman Victor Malima.
- The fuel deal is linked to the ongoing Namibia National Petroleum Corporation corruption case.
- Nelumbu's contract is set to expire later this year, and the board may choose not to renew it.
