In a surprising twist, Namibian lawmakers are prohibited from asking questions or making statements in Parliament about the violent NAMDIA diamond robbery. This revelation came to light after nbc investigated why parliamentarians have remained silent on the issue, despite calls for accountability, transparency, and access to information surrounding what could be Namibia’s largest diamond heist involving a state-owned enterprise.

Sakeus Kadhikwa, Parliament’s Senior Public Relations Officer, confirmed the restriction in response to nbc’s inquiry. He explained that parliamentary rules prevent Members of Parliament (MPs) from discussing any matter currently before the courts. This includes debates, questions, or motions related to the NAMDIA robbery.

“This rule is not specific to the NAMDIA case but applies to all matters before the courts,” Kadhikwa stated. He emphasized that the restriction is in place to uphold the integrity of the judiciary and avoid parliamentary interference in ongoing legal proceedings.

The robbery, which took place at the state-owned Namibia Desert Diamonds (NAMDIA), resulted in the theft of an undisclosed quantity and value of diamonds. Tragically, two people lost their lives during the incident. Despite the gravity of the situation, NAMDIA has remained tight-lipped, stating that it will address questions “at an appropriate time.”

Meanwhile, Manuel Ngaringombe, Secretary General of the Popular Democratic Movement (PDM), has vowed to challenge the silence. He announced that his party plans to raise questions about the robbery.