The State has filed an application for leave to appeal the decision that granted bail to NAMCOR accused Cedric Willemse.

The State is accusing him of being part of a syndicate involved in misappropriating nearly N$400 million in public funds.

Willemse was released on bail by Magistrate Olga Muharukua in the Windhoek Magistrate’s Court last month. 

The State argues that the magistrate misjudged the evidence and failed to consider the broader public interest, particularly the impact of the alleged scheme on the national petroleum corporation, NAMCOR.

According to the State, Willemse, as a member of NAMCOR’s credit committee, facilitated the supply of fuel to companies that had exceeded their credit limits, in violation of the corporation’s policies. 

The State also says that large amounts of money were deposited into Willemse’s personal accounts after certain asset purchases and increases in credit limits, including deposits of up to N$1.04 million, and argues that there is a strong prima facie case against him, Willemse, and the likelihood of conviction is high.

Investigators have raised concerns that Willemse could interfere with witnesses and ongoing investigations. 

The application for leave to appeal has been submitted to the High Court.