N$1m elevator installed at govt property housing former VP

The presidency has revealed that a N$1 million elevator has been illegally installed at a government guesthouse, which is under the care of the Office of the Prime Minister. “The scheme was uncovered after it came to light that certain officials had illegally authorised the installation of the elevator at a cost of N$999 000. No decision had been made to install any elevator at the Guest House. Shockingly, the installation follows the parliamentary statement by the Minister in the Presidency, Honorable Martin Andjaba, in which he informed the National Assembly that former Vice President Dr. Nickey Iyambo was temporarily hosted at the Guest House of the Office of the Prime Minister,” the presidency said in a statement. The Namibian reported earlier that government officials had reportedly discussed a proposal to install a N$2 million elevator at the government property occupied by the frail Iyambo. “Regrettably, unprincipled officials hastily and clandestinely installed the elevator two weeks later, between 1-8 April 2019, without consultation and prior knowledge of senior management in the Presidency. These actions, unauthorized, un-procedural and illegal seek to tarnish the commitment of President Geingob to effective governance. They are bound to fail,” the presidency warned. The presidency further said Geingob has directed an investigation to be constituted by the Secretary to Cabinet George Simataa and other leading officials. “Those implicated, whether in Government or the private sector will be prosecuted accordingly, and made to pay for this illegal expenditure.”

STAFF REPORTER