Law Society of Namibia demands justice, protection after prosecutor Shiweda’s death

The Law Society of Namibia (LSN) has demanded that the government conduct a thorough investigation into prosecutor Justine Shiweda’s murder and ensure the perpetrators are brought to book.

Shiweda, who was a control prosecutor at Ondangwa, was attacked in October for allegedly refusing to grant a suspect in a high-profile case bail.

The attackers shot her and threw a corrosive acid at her.

Shiweda has been in hospital since and died on Saturday.

LSN chairperson Willem van Greunen in a statement on Tuesday describes the incident as deviant conduct “which constitutes an intolerable threat to judicial independence”, saying the prosecutor was only carrying out her lawful function.

He says violence and impunity directed at the legal profession, prosecutors, judicial officers, and court users will not go unaccounted for.

“The safety of legal professionals is not negotiable! It is imperative that if we are to uphold justice, protect the vulnerable, and ensure the rule of law prevails, necessary steps are to be taken,” he says.

Van Greunen urges the government to prioritise the protection of judicial institutions and those who serve within them, adding that the justice system cannot function effectively in an environment where violence threatens those tasked with upholding the law.

“This horrific and cowardly attack on the late Shiweda is not only a tragedy for her family and colleagues, but also a tragedy for the nation. It is an attack on every Namibian who believes in the protection and enforcement of the law,” the statement reads.

Van Greunen says the state has a constitutional obligation to ensure those who serve the justice system are able to perform their functions independently, without fear, intimidation, or violence, as such ensuring the safety and independence of legal professionals.

“Prosecutors must receive physical protection when their personal safety is at risk as a result of the discharge of their prosecutorial functions. The relevant authorities must give meaning to and adhere to these guidelines,” he says.

Van Greunen calls for the immediate strengthening of security protocols and protective measures for prosecutors, judicial officers, and court officials nationwide, saying they play a critical role in upholding accountability, combating impunity and ensuring that victims of crimes receive justice.

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