On Nov. 4, former Namibia University of Science and Technology spokesperson John Haufiku issued a public apology to the institution’s chief legal adviser, Joshua Kaumbi, for statements made during a broadcast interview that led to a defamation suit. Kaumbi filed a N$500,000 lawsuit in July 2023 after Haufiku claimed the university had suspended him for leaking information to the media. Haufiku said the comments were impromptu responses to a follow-up question, and he later recognized they could be misread. The High Court has directed NUST to contribute N$50,000 toward Kaumbi’s legal fees.
In his apology letter, Haufiku acknowledged his remarks carried malice and regretted any reputational damage or distress caused to Kaumbi and his family. He stated he had no intention of misleading listeners or harming Kaumbi’s standing. The court’s fee order underscores its finding in the matter and brings the public dispute between the former spokesperson and the university’s legal adviser closer to resolution.
In his apology letter, Haufiku acknowledged his remarks carried malice and regretted any reputational damage or distress caused to Kaumbi and his family. He stated he had no intention of misleading listeners or harming Kaumbi’s standing. The court’s fee order underscores its finding in the matter and brings the public dispute between the former spokesperson and the university’s legal adviser closer to resolution.
