President-elect Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah says no Namibian can claim they are not involved in any form of corruption.
She has also called for an end to the rogue practice.
Nandi-Ndaitwah was speaking during a gathering at her Onheleiwa residence in the Ohangwena region on 28 December last year.
“Nobody can claim that you are not part of corruption.
You are all involved in [corruption]. I appeal that we must all desist from corrupt activities,” Nandi-Ndaitwah said.
On that day, the Namibian Broadcasting Corporation reported that the president-elect also commended the business people who supported Swapo’s campaigns in the run-up to the November 2024 elections in which she emerged victorious.
“Truly, the business community has been a beacon of support to our party.
Hence, Ndilimani – the party’s band – has to compose a song specially for our business people. We thank you,” she said.
She further urged the business community to work together.
“I don’t want gossip. I want good business ideas that can help develop our country.
If I find someone who wants to partner with you, I will refer you to them so you can see who is going to win. You are all business people.”
Both Nandi-Ndaitwah and former diplomat Haroldt /Urib, who is alleged to be her spokesperson, did not respond to questions seeking clarity and context yesterday.
Political analyst Henning Melber described Nandi-Ndaitwah’s statement on corruption as “remarkable”.
“It suggests that NNN [Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah] seems determined to fight corruption and to take the bull by the horns.
It is a clear announcement against which she will be measured by all Namibians who are sick and tired of the state of corruption. It will depend on visible consequences, if this is credible or just another empty promise, as Namibians were given so often before,” Melber said.
He emphasised that Nandi-Ndaitwah needs to live up to her remarks to show that she means what she says.
“It might be a first step towards regaining trust and support for a party in decline and could reflect the insight that the course has to change if Swapo wants to stay in political power.”
Social commentator Ndumba Kamwanyah said the president-elect’s statement that all Namibians are involved in corruption is misleading.
He noted that the statement unfairly generalises corruption and includes morally upright citizens who have no involvement in corrupt practices.
“Many ordinary people, especially those not engaged in public affairs, are unjustly grouped with corrupt political elites. Such sweeping generalisations risk alienating honest citizens and undermining trust in leadership.”
Kamwanyah further said leaders must use clear and specific language when addressing corruption.
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