Justicia Shipena
Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) director general Paulus Noa has urged investigators to speed up corruption cases and warned staff not to be distracted by social media activists.
Addressing the ACC staff in Windhoek on Wednesday, Noa said delays in investigations weaken public trust and affect the institution’s credibility.
“Speedy finalisation of corruption investigation is critical. The longer you take, the more the chance of relevant information and evidence disappearing,” he said.
He acknowledged that corruption investigations can be complex, especially when complainants are unwilling to provide information. However, he said this should not lead to unnecessary delays.
He told investigators to prepare their case files properly to support prosecutions.
“Dockets must be well prepared with proper pagination. Make it easier for the prosecutor assigned to a docket to refer to a statement or any document contained in the docket,” Noa said.
Noa cautioned staff against being influenced by public commentary online.
“Do not be distracted by social media activists who claim to know what they in fact do not know. Operate within the confines of the law and you shall not go wrong with your investigation,” he said.
He reminded staff that case information remains confidential and that only authorised officials may access the Go-case system.
Noa said the commission must begin the 2026/2027 financial year with focus and teamwork.
“I trust you are all ready to hit the ground running, as we are about to roll out our activities for the financial year 2026/2027,” he said.
Noa stressed that the ACC is a public institution and that staff conduct reflects on its image.
“The commission is a public institution, established to serve the public. It is not our private enterprise,” he said.
He warned that misconduct by one employee can damage the institution’s reputation.
“The unprofessional conduct of just one staff member can destroy the good reputation of the institution. Your conduct wherever you find yourself has a bearing on the ACC image,” he said.
Noa cautioned staff against accepting gifts or benefits that may amount to corruption.
“Accepting gifts or benefits that potentially constitute corruption may not only destroy your professional career but also result in charges of misconduct or criminal charges of corruption,” he said.
Noa also raised concern about staff turnover, saying the ACC has lost experienced officials to institutions offering better salaries.
“The commission cannot any longer be ignored and left limping while expected to perform miracles in corruption investigations,” he said.
He called for restructuring and improved conditions of service to strengthen the institution.
Noa noted that the current National Anti-Corruption Strategy and Action Plan is nearing completion and urged staff to move quickly in developing the third strategy.
“We cannot afford to create a vacuum between now and the development of the 3rd National Anti-Corruption Strategy and Action Plan,” he said.
