The Namibia Sports Commission has distanced itself from media reports that levelled allegations of mismanagement against the commission, its chairman and the chief administrator. In a letter signed by chairman Joel Mathews, the commission claims that these reports are untruthful and defamatory. The claims range from financial mismanagement to unprofessional conduct by the chairman and the chief administrator, who are allegedly were taking decisions alone. Many of these rumours were spread after the unceremonious departure of advocate Jesse Schickerling from the commission last year. The commission report states that despite these negative reporting the board and the management of the commission have always worked harmoniously. “At no stage did the chairperson of any commissioner comment that the resignation of Mr Schickerling was a blessing in disguise and his non-attendance of board meetings”. According to the release, the commission also confirmed that the remuneration package of the Chief Administrator, all executives and administrative staff were discussed at Board meeting. Two members of the board were tasked to look at the proposal for further investigation and consultation with the Ministry of Public Enterprise. “However we confirm that the only board issue of contention was the approval process of the remuneration packages of the executives. The commission also denies the allegation that the chief administrator is often absent from office. The commission ratifies that administering sports requires field work and not only office work” On the allegations that the chairman and the chief administrator run the affairs of the commission alone, the commission confirmed that not all decisions of strategy are approved by the board - in particular those concerning the federations. The commission further confirmed that the overhead costs are low and the only increase was the wage bill after the remuneration restructuring of the organisation. In conclusion, the commission said the members strive to work together - despite their strengths and weaknesses - for the benefits of all stakeholders.