By Elezo Libanda
Windhoek, July 10 – The Minister of Higher Education, Training, and Innovation has found herself embroiled in a controversy surrounding alleged double dipping in funds meant for abroad trips. Activist Job Amupanda recently took to Facebook, accusing the minister of accepting payments for trips that were either fully funded or cancelled.
Amupanda’s allegations point to a troubling pattern of financial impropriety within the ministry. According to his claims, the minister received a substantial amount of N$300,000 for a trip that was ultimately cancelled. In addition, the Namibia Training Authority (NTA) allegedly made payments of N$800,000 for other overseas trips.
These accusations suggest that within the span of a year, higher education institutions paid a staggering total of N$1.5 million to the minister for various trips, including both fully funded and cancelled ones. The funds were purportedly deposited into the minister’s personal bank account, a practice that deviates from established Treasury Instructions and undermines the integrity of the financial systems in place.
Amupanda’s revelations raise concerns not only about corruption but also about the disregard for policies, structures, and established institutions within the Ministry of Higher Education, Training, and Innovation. The allegations shed light on a deeply troubling practice that seemingly prioritizes personal gain over ethical governance and transparency.
With mounting pressure from the public, the nation eagerly awaits a response from the appointment authority to either clear the minister’s name or validate the accusations.
When approached for comment, Honourable Minister Ita Kandji-Murangi dismissed the allegations as administrative in nature. She assured the public that the ministry would address these matters through an upcoming press statement at the appropriate time. However, the seriousness of the allegations demands swift and decisive action to restore public trust.
The Namibia Daily News will closely follow developments regarding these accusations and the ministry’s response. Namibians eagerly await clarification and accountability as they seek to uphold the principles of transparency and integrity within their government. – Namibia Daily News
