The Ministry's office at the town, which was constructed by the colonial government, is in a poor condition and the roof leaks whenever there is a heavy shower.

A reliable source in the Ministry of Justice said the Ministry promised to construct new magistrates' offices next to the town's Police station, but two years have passed since and nothing has been done up to now.

"We are approaching the rainy season and that means a big problem for the staff of the Ministry of Justice as they have to assume the duties of cleaners after every rainfall," said the source.

The source added that the toilets were out of order and toilet water flows all over the building.

State prosecutor here, Margot Gebhardt, told Nampa on Monday that she expected the ceiling of the courtroom to fall on her head while she is prosecuting, referring to the loose tiles in the building's ceiling.

Opuwo Magistrate Thomas Kanime also confirmed the bad condition of the building.

He said the delay in the construction of new offices was contributing to many unforeseen problems like criminals escaping from court.

Kanime indicated that the new offices should preferably be constructed as close to the Police station as possible to make their work easier.

The Magistrate referred Nampa to the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry or the Chief of the lower courts for more information on the proposed construction of new offices, but both officials were not available for comment. - Nampa

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