Prosecutor General Martha Imalwa has dismissed claims that the Fishrot case is too complex for unrepresented accused, arguing that there is sufficient evidence to prove their guilt.

Addressing Judge Moses Chinhengo on Tuesday, Imalwa stated that those without legal representation are capable of standing trial and defending themselves.

She revealed that she had attempted to meet the accused at the Windhoek Correctional Facility last week to discuss legal representation but was served with court documents before she could provide a solution.

Imalwa was cut short by Judge Chinhengo when she attempted to argue that former Justice Minister Sacky Shanghala was not being truthful about his financial status. She claimed Shanghala had received pension payouts and could afford legal fees but chose not to disclose his financial status.

Judge Chinhengo said should the Court set a date for the commencement of the trial, they will continue to hear the matter of whether the accused persons are represented or not, PG Imalwa said the proposed date of August 4 is unreasonable and suggested that the trial commences in a reasonable time.

Judge Chinhengo has indicated that once a trial date is set for the Fishrot case, proceedings will continue regardless of whether all accused have legal representation.

Chinhengo said the trial cannot be set beyond August 4.