A splinter faction of the Christian Democratic Voice (CDV) claims it has suspended party president Gotthard Kandume for allegedly withdrawing N$180 000 from the party’s bank account.
Party secretary general Hans Stramiss says it has opened a fraud case against Kandume last Thursday.
“We have opened a case of fraud against him with the Namibian Police because he withdrew the party’s money without following the right procedures. He first withdrew N$80 000 and then N$100 000, which is taxpayers’ money,” he says.
Stramiss says the bank should be held accountable.
“The bank has failed us. The leader of a Christian party cannot do that. It is demoralising the party,” he says.
The CDV made the news earlier this year after the Electoral Commission of Namibia (ECN) cancelled its registration as a political party, along with that of the Namibia Economic Freedom Fighters (NEFF) on 13 June.
This came after both parties failed to submit audited financial statements to the ECN as required by the Electoral Act.
“This is a Christian party, and doing so does not paint a good image, that is why we were deregistered. We have suspended him, and he will go for a disciplinary hearing,” Stramiss says.
‘IMPROPER USE’ OF PARTY FUNDS
Party vice president Viola Geirises in a letter addressed to Kandume said he was suspended following the improper use of the party’s funds.
“lt has come to our attention that there may have been unauthorised and improper use of party funds under your leadership,” she wrote.
The National Executive Council (NEC) has further identified significant concerns regarding financial mismanagement, specifically relating to unauthorised transactions and expenditure appearing to be outside the scope of party objectives and approved budgets.
“This alleged misuse of funds is a serious violation of the fiduciary duties from a leader within the Christian Democratic Voice party.
“This therefore serves to notify you that you are suspended from your position of being the president of the CDV with immediate effect, pending the finalisation of investigations,” Geirises wrote.
She said Kandume will not be involved in financial or operational activities within the party.
“You will not provide access to any records, documentation, or communications related to the party’s financial transactions as requested by the investigation committee.
“Refrain from making any public statements on behalf of the party without prior authorisation from the national executive committee.
“Kindly take note that failure to comply with these terms or any attempt to interfere with the investigation may lead to further disciplinary action, including possible expulsion from the party.
“We trust that you will cooperate fully in this matter to allow for a swift and fair resolution,” she wrote.
BANK DECEPTION
The CDV’s constitution does not allow its president to handle finances directly.
Kandume, however, allegedly lied to the bank, saying the signatories to the party’s bank account were no longer party members.
“He told the bank that the two signatories that were appointed to approve withdrawals were no longer members of the party, and he was the only one to gain access to the money,” Stramiss says.
‘ONE-MAN SHOW’
Another member of the party, who prefers to remain anonymous, says Kandume has been operating as the party’s referee and goalkeeper, not allowing anyone to deal with its funds.
“It means it is a one-man show if the president can withdraw money without the knowledge of the party. We are not sure what he uses the money for,” the source said.
Kandume asked The Namibian to send him questions, but has not responded by the time of going to print. This story has been edited.
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