Renthia Kaimbi
Fishrot accused Tamson “Fitty” Hatuikulipi has been hospitalised in Windhoek since last week following a suspected case of food poisoning.
Associates of Hatuikulipi claimed toxicology tests showed he reacted to “excessive substances”, though they did not specify which substances.
They said he and his co-accused, former Fishing Corporation of Namibia (Fishcor) chief executive officer Mike Nghipunya, allegedly bought food from the correctional facility cafeteria shortly before the incident.
Reports indicate they have not been allowed to receive food from outside the facility.
Hatuikulipi’s lawyer, Mbanga Siyomunji, confirmed that inmates have not been permitted to receive outside food since the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, relying instead on Namibia Post Limited (NamPost) accounts for additional needs, while the state provides meals. He downplayed the allegations.
“I cannot speak on what I don’t know, but it’s a case of normal food poisoning. All I know is that he’s been hospitalised and he’s recovering well,” Siyomunji said.
Relatives of Hatuikulipi also confirmed that he has been hospitalised but rejected any suggestions of poisoning. They noted he is not the first Fishrot accused to require medical attention and said details remain confidential.
Namibia Correctional Service commissioner general Raphael Hamunyela confirmed Hatuikulipi’s admission.
“We have never poisoned anybody. He was admitted last week, but for this (poisoning allegations), I think we have to find out from the doctor. It is news to me today about the reason he went to hospital,” Hamunyela said.
Windhoek Observer has learnt that detainees may purchase toiletries at a facility called “The Shop”, but food from the canteen is only available to service members.
Hatuikulipi’s hospitalisation adds to a series of medical emergencies involving high-profile corruption accused.
The Fishrot case involves allegations that Icelandic fishing company Samherji paid about N$300 million in bribes to Namibian officials and businessmen to secure fishing quotas.
Hatuikulipi is described as a central figure in the scandal and is also accused of receiving large sums through multiple channels.
Earlier this year, Hatuikulipi launched an application in the High Court seeking permission to appeal the refusal of his bail request.
In December 2024, Acting High Court judge David Munsu dismissed his bail application, stating that Hatuikulipi had not presented new facts and had failed to account for millions deposited into his accounts.
The state alleges that through his involvement in the Fishrot corruption scandal, Hatuikulipi benefited financially, receiving about N$17 million through personal bank accounts and an additional N$40.6 million through companies and entities under his control.
Following that ruling, the High Court also dismissed Hatuikulipi’s application for leave to appeal to the Supreme Court. Justice Claudia Claasen delivered the ruling on behalf of Judge Munsu, marking yet another failed attempt by Hatuikulipi to secure his release.
Hatuikulipi, a key figure in the Fishrot scandal, has now spent more than five years in custody alongside his co-accused.
Since his initial bail application was denied by the Windhoek Magistrate’s Court in July 2020, he has lodged several appeals and new applications in 2022 and 2024, all of which have been unsuccessful, as the court has consistently maintained its stance on his continued detention.
