Judiciary gears up for a new year

A sombre atmosphere reigned as Chief Justice Peter Shivute commemorated the commencement of the legal year, expressing sentiments in remembrance of the late president Hage Geingob. He noted Geingob's fervent commitment to the judiciary, symbolising the executive's acknowledgment of its independence.

Welcoming president Nangolo Mbumba, during an event that marked one of his first official appearances as head of state, Shivute lauded a 93.5% case disposal rate for the Supreme Court and the High Court's 78% disposal rate for both civil and labour cases.

However, he highlighted continuous challenges such as budget constraints and non-compliance with court rules that hamper the judiciary's work.

The judiciary, however, noted a decline in the percentage of matters finalised within the disposal benchmark, from 73% in 2022 to 64% in 2023.

Progress noted

Shivute said the judiciary continues to be inundated with work as the number of new matters brought before courts escalates.

On a positive note, the judiciary saved roughly N$23.7 million in operational costs due to the utilisation of mediation courts, he added.

"We've witnessed significant strides, including bench diversity enhancements and increased case hearings," Shivute said, noting the appointment of justices Hannelie Prinsloo, Esi Schimming Chase and Rita Makarau.

Shivute shared that the assignment of seats in courts in Okahao, Ohangwena, Gochas, Impalila Island, Stampriet and Witvlei will help make justice more accessible.

Mbumba, in his turn, reiterated the importance of maintaining a judiciary that has the liberty to act independently of the state.