The Senior Investigating Officer at the Anti-Corruption Commission, Albert Zaako, stated that the Commission does not investigate cases reported for personal gain.
Since July, the Commission has noted an increase in the number of reported cases. There are established procedures that need to be followed when reporting cases, which should be reasonable and within the Commission's jurisdiction.
Zaako mentioned that some of the cases reported this year date back to 2014.
"Now that it's an election year, my office is busy; people are calling in and reporting. When you ask when these incidents occurred—2014, 2015, 2016, 2020—the question arises: Where were you all this time? Why now? Why today? Why in October before November?"
He observed that, unlike ten years ago, Otjozondjupa has reported fewer cases. However, there are ongoing concerns regarding the Grootfontein Municipality.
"It's one of the municipalities causing us headaches in the region; I must say, because we receive cases from Grootfontein on a daily basis. There is no year without cases from Grootfontein Municipality, so I believe the councillors there will need to address this issue seriously."
While the region has fewer reported cases, Zaako noted that this might also indicate a lack of reporting by residents.
Otjozondjupa Governor James Uerikua urged the public not to remain silent when they witness corruption.
"Don't just sit on it and then later try to score cheap political points. Make it meaningful; bring your concerns to the appropriate office for investigation so that we can address the reality."
Uerikua emphasized that issues of corruption should not be politicized, as doing so may deprive people of the essential services they need.