One of the alleged masterminds of the Fishrot scandal, Tamson Hatuikulipi , has denied the assertion by the lower court in his previous failed bail application that he was part of a syndicate that 'plundered' Namibia's resources.
This, he said, is proven by the discovery disclosed to him and his lawyer Mbanga Siyomunji by the State on 1 June 2023. The discovery contains a multitude of email exchanges. However, Siyomunji, who is representing Hatuikulipi after his former lawyer withdrew because of a lack of funds, argued that the grounds constitute new facts not heard before. The judge agreed to hear the matter on the condition that Hatuikulipi does not dwell on evidence already before court.
Hatuikulipi's financial position has deteriorated to the extent that he is unable to pay rates and taxes on properties he owns, which poses the risk that the properties could be attached to pay for the bills due.
Hatuikulipi also bemoaned the fact that he is not present in his children's lives to give them guidance, especially his son who is now 12 years old, and needs his guidance as a father. He said his children only started visiting him in November last year, and that he is allowed two visits a month consisting of one hour. This, he said, is not enough to guide them.