Windhoek — The head of the board of directors at Namibia’s national oil company, Jennifer Comalie, appeared in court on Tuesday facing charges of dealing in “dangerous dependence‑producing substances.” She was arrested on Monday at the company’s offices after intelligence officers, acting on a tip‑off, allegedly discovered a consignment of drugs in her official vehicle.
A spokesperson for the Namibian police in the Khomas region, Silas Shipandeni, confirmed the arrest to VOA. He said the contraband found in Comalie’s vehicle included 995 grams of cannabis (referred to as “skunk”), 10 grams of cocaine powder and 90 units of crack cocaine, estimating a total street value of about 50,000 Namibian dollars.
Approximately 50 supporters gathered at the Windhoek Magistrate Court to back Comalie, whom many believe was set up amid a power struggle with the managing director of the National Petroleum Corporation of Namibia (NAMCOR). NAMCOR, in partnership with Dutch oil giant Shell and Qatar Energy, recently announced a major offshore oil discovery. The company holds a 10 percent stake in the joint venture, which could generate substantial revenue for Namibia if drilling and production proceed.
Among those showing support was corporate leader and friend of the accused, Twapewa Kadhikwa. Speaking to VOA, Kadhikwa argued that Comalie’s arrest was politically motivated by interests tied to Namibia’s burgeoning oil sector. “It’s obvious, it is not something you can put aside,” he said. “As a corporate leader, I know Jenny. Jenny does not use drugs. The volume of drugs found in her car is consistent with a trader, not a consumer.” He suggested the arrest was a plot to discredit her.
Local political analyst Rakkel Andreas, when asked about Namibia’s emerging oil and gas industry, emphasized the need for robust governance to prevent officials from enriching themselves at the public’s expense. “We are learning that systemic corruption is a reality across the African continent, often operating under legal frameworks,” he said. “We must build infrastructure that closes loopholes and prevents systemic corruption. That is the larger conversation.”
Comalie was released on bail on Tuesday. Inspector General of the Namibian police, Joseph Shikongo, has called for an investigation into the circumstances surrounding her arrest and the source of the tip‑off that led police to the alleged drugs in her car.
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