The Ministry of Health and Social Services is denying that the High Court has granted a default judgement for the payment of N$14 million against the minister of health.
The denial is contained in a media statement issued by the ministry’s executive director, Penda Ithindi, on Thursday.
Ithindi reacted to media reports in which it was stated that the High Court issued a default judgement against the health minister after a failure to oppose a civil claim in which an Angolan national sued the minister and ministry officials for N$14 million.
According to a court order seen by The Namibian, a default judgement for the payment of N$14 million was granted against the health minister in November 2024.
The plaintiff in the case claimed antiretroviral medication and medication to treat tuberculosis had been prescribed to him in 2018, and he continued to take the medication, which caused side effects, for nearly three years, despite the fact that he did not in actual fact need the medication.
The patient sued the health minister for alleged medical negligence on the part of staff members of the Ministry of Health and Social Services.
It was also reported in the media this week that the plaintiff claimed health officials had failed to assess his condition properly and inform him of changes in medication, and had continued to prescribe medication without confirming that he still required it.
In his statement, Ithindi says an investigation of the case record at the High Court showed the claim had not been properly served on the government, “thereby invalidating any potential basis for a default judgement”.
“The ministry reiterates its commitment to adhering to all legal processes and ensuring that due diligence is exercised in all judicial matters involving the state,” Ithindi says.
He adds: “Premature reporting based on unverified claims can lead to widespread misinformation and unwarranted public apprehension, potentially undermining public trust in both institutions and the media.”
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