Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Timo Shihepo
Published on 2024-03-13 17:00:00
The National Youth Council (NYC) is currently under investigation by the government for allegations of corruption, mismanagement, and non-compliance. The probe focuses on internal conflicts between the executive chairperson, Sharonice Busch, and the director, Calista Schwartz-Gowases, leading to significant disruptions within the organization.
Documents obtained by The Namibian reveal that Minister of Sport, Youth, and National Service Agnes Tjongarero instructed both Busch and Schwartz-Gowases to refrain from taking action against each other until the ministry addresses their grievances. A special committee, comprised of members from the Ministry of Sport, Youth, National Service, and the Ministry of Finance and Public Enterprises, conducted investigation hearings starting on 24 January.
Among the allegations is Schwartz-Gowases working without a contract since December 2021, causing confusion regarding roles and responsibilities between the executive chairperson and the director. This lack of clarity has led to power struggles within the organization. Schwartz-Gowases is also accused of interfering in the procurement system and facilitating an unauthorized payment for renovations at the NYC’s head office.
Despite the allegations, Schwartz-Gowases has denied any wrongdoing, including unfair labor practices and victimization of employees. The investigation committee is looking into these accusations and the overall management of the NYC.
The power struggles have resulted in the NYC failing to convene its yearly Representative Council meeting for the second time since its establishment. Tjongarero has expressed disappointment in the non-compliance and has pledged to demand a specific date for the meeting. The Representative Council acts as the second-highest consultative, policy, and decision-making body when the General Assembly is not in session.
Accusations have also been made against Busch, with some Swapo sources claiming she deliberately delayed the Representative Council meeting to avoid facing a vote of no confidence. This has raised concerns among members of the Council, with calls for an audit to address the violations of the NYC Act.
While some members believe the NYC is being turned into a Swapo Party Youth League (SPYL) gathering, SPYL secretary Ephraim Nekongo has denied these claims. Nekongo emphasized that the NYC is composed of various political organizations, with SPYL being just one affiliated youth organization.
As the investigation into the NYC continues, stakeholders are closely watching the developments to ensure accountability and transparency within the organization. The government’s efforts to address the allegations of corruption and mismanagement are crucial in upholding the integrity of the NYC and its mandate to serve Namibia’s youth population.
Read the original article on The Namibian
