High Court Judge Moses Chinhengo has postponed the Fishrot corruption trial to August 4, adding that it must proceed regardless of whether all accused have legal representation.
Prosecutor General Martha Imalwa dismissed concerns that the case is too complex for unrepresented accused, stating that there is sufficient evidence to prove their guilt.
Imalwa maintained that those without legal counsel are capable of standing trial and defending themselves.
During the proceedings today, Imalwa revealed that she had attempted to meet the accused at the Windhoek Correctional Facility last week to discuss their legal representation but was served with court documents before a solution could be provided.
Imalwa was interrupted by Judge Chinhengo when she attempted to argue that former Justice Minister Sacky Shanghala was not truthful about his financial status.
Imalwa claimed that Shanghala had received pension payouts and could afford legal fees but chose not to disclose his financial situation.
The issue of legal representation remains a major obstacle in the case, with some of the accused struggling to secure funding for their defence.
Judge Chinhengo questioned the state on potential solutions should the accused fail to obtain legal representation.
In response, the prosecution suggested that the accused either represent themselves or that the court order the state to cover their legal costs.
Meanwhile, Shanghala has argued the continued separation of the Fishrot accused at the Windhoek Correctional Facility, informing the Court that it hampers their ability to coordinate their defence effectively.
The Fishrot trial, which involves allegations of large-scale bribery in Namibia’s fishing sector, has faced multiple delays.
However, Judge Chinhengo has made it clear that once a trial date is set, proceedings will move forward, whether or not all accused have legal representation.
Imalwa, however, argued that the proposed trial date of August 4 is unreasonable and suggested that it commence within a reasonable timeframe.
Judge Chinhengo, however, insisted that the trial must begin no later than the set date