Minister of justice and labour relations Wise Immanuel at the National Assembly, Windhoek, 30 April 2025.
Introduction of Vote 21 – Office of the Judiciary for the 2025/26 financial year
I rise in application for leave to introduce and present Vote 21 for scrutiny and discussion by this august house. This vote caters for the budget allocation to the Office of the Judiciary for the 2025/26 financial year.
Permit me to begin by extending my sincere appreciation to the minister of finance and the director general of the National Planning Commission, in his absence, for their timely and meticulous formulation of the current budget. This has resulted in a balanced and thoughtful budget that supports national priorities – including justice.
To this house, I express gratitude for your unwavering support and vigilant oversight, which continue to empower the judiciary in fulfilling its constitutional mission: upholding the rule of law and ensuring that justice is dispensed impartially, effectively, and swiftly. Again today, here we are praying for your indulgence in having this important and strategic vote cleared and passed.
It is pleasing to report to the house that the Office of the Judiciary has once again received an unqualified audit opinion — a testament to the office’s commitment to transparency, accountability and prudent financial management. This continued track record not only signifies the level of integrity that characterises the operation of the judiciary, but also underscores a vote of confidence that the public should have in this third organ of the state.
Strategic investment in justice
For the 2025/26 fiscal year, the judiciary has been allocated a total of N$600 969 000 — a significant increase from the previous year. This includes N$534 869 000 for operations and N$66 100 000 for development projects.
This investment is not just a budgetary line – it is a footnote that Namibia values a justice system that is accessible, independent and robust. While the operational budget provides for core functions, the development budget will address critical infrastructural needs that have long suffered under fiscal constraints. Among the projects are:
- A new magistrate’s court in Nkurenkuru;
- Renovations and upgrades at courts in Oshakati, Karasburg, Katima Mulilo, Walvis Bay, Omega 1 and others;
- Improvements to residential accommodation for magistrates;
- Enhancements to support facilities such as leased office space at Ohangwena.
It is also publicly known that legislative amendments to the Judiciary Act of 2015 are underway to formally transfer responsibility for capital projects to the Office of the Judiciary. This shift will enhance both institutional independence and operational autonomy, while maintaining consultations with the Ministry of Justice and Labour Relations.
Modernisation and access to justice
Innovation is ongoing at the judiciary. A notable advancement is the phased implementation of cashless payment systems for witness fees – a transformative step to ease the burden on citizens, especially in remote regions.
In terms of judicial performance, the Supreme Court and High Court continue to deliver strong case disposal rates despite mounting pressures. However, clearance of ever-increasing caseloads demands more than dedication — it requires resources, including financial and human capital.
The approval to fill 27 magistrate vacancies and six High Court bench positions, with N$12.3 million earmarked for the latter, is a watershed moment. These appointments will bring critical relief to our courts, particularly the lower courts, which serve as the frontline of justice for most of our people.
In the past year, we inaugurated the Hoachanas Periodical Court and the Environmental Crimes Court at Otjiwarongo, symbolising our commitment to decentralisation and specialised justice delivery.
Looking ahead, the establishment of the Public Procurement Court under the Public Procurement Act is a strategic move to ensure speedy and expert-led adjudication of procurement disputes. Similarly, consideration is being given to the possible creation of a Small Claims Court, pending finalisation of the bill.
Specialised courts, while transformative, require dedicated infrastructure and judicial personnel. These needs must be met with consistent and forward-looking investment.
The judiciary: A strategic pillar of the republic
Justice is not a luxury; it is the very fabric of a free and democratic society. As the African proverb reminds us: ‘Smooth seas do not make skilful sailors.’
The judiciary has navigated difficult waters with courage, but continued excellence requires more than resilience – it requires leadership and strategic investment.
It is our conviction that with this allocation, we can sustain and strengthen our courts, enhance access to justice, and deepen public confidence in the rule of law.
Budget breakdown: Vote 21 – Office of the Judiciary
- Programme 01: Supreme Court adjudication and administration
N$36 675 000 - Programme 02: High Court adjudication and administration
N$116 645 000 - Programme 03: Lower courts adjudication and administration
N$240 903 000 - Programme 04: Policy, support and coordination
N$206 746 000
Total allocation: N$600 969 000
In conclusion
I now yield the floor, optimistic that I have logically persuaded every one of you on the importance of justice and why an allocation intended to enable the proper, effective and impartial functioning of our courts should not be delayed.
Therefore, your approval of this budget is your commitment to a just Namibia, anchored in the rule of law.
I thank you.
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