IPPR calls for action on Whistleblower Protection Act

On 11 July 2024, as the world observes ‘African Anti-Corruption Day’ under the theme “Effective Whistleblowers Protection Mechanism: A Critical Tool in the Fight Against Corruption,” the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) has called on the government to urgently implement the 2017 Whistleblower Protection Act. Graham Hopwood, Executive Director of IPPR, stressed the need for establishing the Whistleblower Protection Office without delay.

Hopwood highlighted recent Afrobarometer findings indicating that over six in 10 Namibians fear retaliation or other negative consequences for reporting corruption.

“We need to see the government take action and establish the whistleblower office promptly,” Hopwood said. “Without this protection, individuals reporting wrongdoing, including corruption, will continue to face repercussions, discouraging many from coming forward.”