Public office is not a buffet: Allegations must trigger accountability, not administrative convenience
The allegations surrounding Otjiwarongo Municipality chief executive officer Mberipura Hifitikeko should concern every Namibian, not merely because they involve a housing allowance, but because they strike at a fundamental principle of public administration: those entrusted with managing public resources must themselves be beyond reproach. It is important to state from the outset that these remain […]
The allegations surrounding Otjiwarongo Municipality chief executive officer Mberipura Hifitikeko should concern every Namibian, not merely because they involve a housing allowance, but because they strike at a fundamental principle of public administration: those entrusted with managing public resources must themselves be beyond reproach.
It is important to state from the outset that these remain allegations. No formal finding has yet been made, and Mr Hifitikeko deserves the same presumption of innocence afforded to every citizen. Allegations are not proof, and due process must be allowed to take its course.
But allegations involving public money cannot simply be brushed aside as administrative oversights or internal personnel matters. They demand swift, transparent and independent verification.
The issue is remarkably straightforward.
Government policy, municipal regulations and recent directives from the Ministry of Works and Transport are unequivocal. An official cannot lawfully receive a housing allowance while simultaneously occupying government or council-owned accommodation. The two benefits are mutually exclusive.
There is no legal grey area.
There is no complicated interpretation.
One either qualifies for one benefit or the other.
If the allegations are incorrect, they should be dispelled immediately through documentary evidence. If they are correct, then the issue extends far beyond asking an official to “choose” between two benefits going forward.
