Geingob rolls in new MLs

Cabinet has confirmed that it has bought three new Mercedes ML SUVs for Prime Minister Hage Geingob in what appears to be a move to beef up his security ahead of the elections. Without the bullet-proofing and other security features the three vehicles are valued at close to N$3 million. Namibian Sun understands that the vehicles are equipped with top-of-the range security features such as bulletproof armour. Secretary to Cabinet Frans Kapofi confirmed the purchase. “The State bought the vehicles due to their specific capabilities and capacities,” he said. “He (Geingob) did not ask for the vehicles. It was not his request. The State saw that they want to buy the vehicles due to their different functions.” Asked about the cars’ security features, Kapofi said: “I said the vehicles were bought for their different functions and capabilities.” On what will happen to the current fleet of vehicles assigned to Geingob, Kapofi replied: “Some of the vehicles are off-road vehicles and will be used for that purpose. All the vehicles are not going to be used concurrently. They have different specific functions.” Namibian Sun asked police chief Sebastian Ndeitunga a series of questions, including whether Geingob’s security has been beefed up. His response was: “We have the right to protect our principal citizens and officials. The safety and security of our officials cannot be discussed in the media. Who are you telling?” Geingob’s rise to the vice-presidency of Swapo and as leader of government business has been characterised by allegations of death threats, which Ndeitunga and his force investigated. “As we have informed the nation the previous ... death threats were investigated and there was no cause for concern. Now there are these new ones which we received and we are busy with the investigations. We are not done yet,” Ndeitunga said. Just recently Geingob posted on his Facebook page: “For those who will start making accusations that I am using government vehicles for the Swapo party campaign, rest assured that as in the past, I will travel with my own transportation. “As you can see me in the picture [I am] on my way to the Ohangwena Swapo Party Star Rally. I don’t cease to be a Prime Minister, therefore government security and escort is provided.” But it appears he may not have had a choice about using government cars at last weekend’s Swapo rally in Kuisebmond, Walvis Bay. Swapo Secretary-General Nangolo Mbumba said Geingob was the acting Head of State as Pohamba was abroad and hence certain standards had to be maintained. “Where and as what he uses the vehicles is not the issue. The issue is whether he is entitled to it. “When he travels across the country, he does not cease to be Prime Minister and so the people assigned to him will go with him.” On the usage of government cars by other civil servants for party activities, Mbumba said: “Civil servants know the rules and procedures and I do not need to remind them. “Ministers also pay taxes on their vehicles so they are entitled to use them as long as they do not abuse them.” WINDHOEK ELVIS MURARANGANDA