Minister of justice Yvonne Dausab is expected to table a proposed new law on divorce in parliament on Thursday.
Dausab says the current divorce law is still regulated by outdated legislation, which provides that divorces are only granted on the grounds of adultery, malicious desertion, mental illness or habitual criminal behaviour.
The new act would allow people to get divorced if their marriage has irretrievably broken down.
This is a departure from fault-based grounds, simplifying getting divorced.
Currently, the law only allows for divorce proceedings to take place in the High Court. The proposed law would allow parties to have their divorce proceedings heard in magistrate’s courts.
The passing of the new law would expedite divorce proceedings amid Namibia’s harsh socio-economic conditions.
In an age of information overload, Sunrise is The Namibian’s morning briefing, delivered at 6h00 from Monday to Friday. It offers a curated rundown of the most important stories from the past 24 hours – occasionally with a light, witty touch. It’s an essential way to stay informed. Subscribe and join our newsletter community.
The Namibian uses AI tools to assist with improved quality, accuracy and efficiency, while maintaining editorial oversight and journalistic integrity.
Stay informed with The Namibian – your source for credible journalism. Get in-depth reporting and opinions for
only N$85 a month. Invest in journalism, invest in democracy –
Subscribe Now!
