Schlettwein dismisses resignation talks

Finance minister Calle Schlettwein has dismissed rumours that he intends to resign. This follows the abrupt resignation of former presidential economic advisor John Steytler. Reports had emerged that Schlettwein wanted to resign over plans by President Hage Geingob to divert funds from the emergency fund for the independence celebrations, of which Kenyan president Uhuru Kenyatta is the guest of honour. There were suggestions that Schlettwein was frustrated.
Taking om social media this afternoon, Schlettwein indicated that he held no feelings of resigning.
“There are some posts and tweets claiming that I consider(ed) to resign. The truth is that that may be their wish, but it is most definitely not mine (sic),” he said.
Schlettwein has been minister of finance since March 2015 when he took over from Prime Minister Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila. Prior to serving as finance minister, Schlettwein served as trade minister under the administration of former president, Hifikepunye Pohamba. Schlettwein was also deputy minister of finance from the 2010 to 2012. He has also served as permanent secretary in the ministry of finance.
Meanwhile, Schlettwein has announced that the 2019/20 budget will be tabled on 27 March owing to logistical arrangements.