Justice for Justine

I write this letter with a heavy heart following the painful and shocking killing of prosecutor Justine Shiweda.

I did not know her personally, but as a Namibian, I am deeply hurt by her death. No one deserves to die in such a cruel and heartless manner – especially someone who dedicated her life to justice.

She died young, with so much still to offer her family, her profession, and her country. One can only imagine the unbearable pain her family, friends, colleagues, and loved ones are going through.

A life full of promise was stolen, and a nation is left in tears.

This tragedy has shaken students across the country. Many now fear studying law and will instead turn to careers like education and nursing because they feel safer, yet these fields are already full.

This shift may cause serious future problems for our country, leaving critical sectors like law understaffed, weakening our justice system.

Justine Shiweda was brave. She stood firm, even when it was dangerous.

She deserves justice. Her case must be treated with urgency, transparency, and seriousness. Delays only deepen the wounds of a grieving nation.

Furthermore, all prosecutors must be encouraged and protected when reporting anyone who attempts to bribe or threaten them. Corruption and intimidation must never be tolerated, and strong systems must be put in place to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

I also call for the day she died to be recognised as a national day of remembrance for fallen justice workers to honour her courage and remind us that justice must never be silenced by violence.

May her soul rest in eternal peace, and may Namibia rise stronger from this pain.

– Listo Shonena

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