Popular Democratic Movement (PDM) leader McHenry Venaani wants the government to account for its efforts to acquire the Industrial Development Corporation of South Africa’s (IDC) 10.2% shareholding in Rössing Uranium.
Venaani questioned industries, mines and energy minister Modestus Amutse in the National Assembly on Tuesday over the government’s plans to secure the strategic stake.
Amutse is expected to respond next Thursday.
He says the IDC is reportedly in the process of disposing of its Rössing shares, with the sale attracting significant investor interest.
Venaani said the government has previously indicated that it intends to acquire the stake for the benefit of Namibians.
“Can the minister state whether the government has submitted a formal bid and disclose the estimated cost of the acquisition and how it would be financed,” he asked.
Venaani also asked whether the government is aware of Chinese state-owned or Chinese-linked interests seeking to acquire the stake.
He specifically wants clarification on reports that about US$231 million has been raised for such a transaction.
The PDM leader wants an update on the Iranian Foreign Investment Company’s interest in Rössing Uranium, including the amount of funds or dividends allegedly owed to it and when those funds can lawfully be released.
Venaani also raised questions about Namibia’s nuclear ambitions, asking what progress has been made towards developing the country’s first nuclear power plant.
He is demanding details on feasibility studies, proposed technology, financing arrangements and the expected time frame for the project.
