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Outrage in Namibia as President Hage Geingob’s four children join the government delegation to COP28 in Dubai. Despite confirmation from the president’s office that the children traveled to the city, there are denials of state funding for their trip. The office, however, has not provided details on how other family members were financially supported for the journey.
The Namibian Presidency posted on X on Monday, asserting that President Geingob and First Lady Madame Geingos personally covered the flights and accommodation expenses for their children attending COP28 in Dubai. They vehemently denied the use of public funds for the trip and dismissed the claims as “malicious and politically motivated,” emphasizing the distraction from the “excellent work” by the Namibian delegation at COP28.
However, some Namibians find the response inadequate, insisting it doesn’t sufficiently prove private funding. Critics demand an explanation for the inclusion of the president’s family members in the government’s delegation and their role at COP28. Skepticism arises, with one individual expressing on X, “What is the relevance of them being in Dubai together with state delegates?”
Namibian MP Inna Hengari calls for a comprehensive report to be presented in parliament, having previously criticized the government for allegedly sponsoring the president’s family travel while claiming a lack of funds for an MP and parliamentary official attending COP28.
This controversy mirrors a broader criticism across Africa regarding large delegations sent to COP28, seen by some citizens as a display of financial extravagance. Some governments, including Nigeria, Tanzania, and Kenya, defend their actions by stating that many delegates represent media, civil society organizations, and private institutions rather than being state-funded.
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