The long-running Fishrot corruption trial will continue regardless of whether all accused individuals have legal representation, as Judge Moses Chinhengo has stated that the case cannot be delayed beyond August 4.
Prosecutor General Martha Imalwa dismissed concerns that the complexity of the case necessitates legal counsel for the accused, asserting that there is sufficient evidence to establish their guilt.
She emphasised that those without legal representation are capable of standing trial and defending themselves.
Imalwa revealed that she attempted to meet with the accused at the Windhoek Correctional Facility last week to discuss their legal representation but was instead served with court applications citing her before a solution could be reached.
During Tuesday's proceedings, Imalwa was interrupted by Judge Chinhengo while arguing that former Justice Minister Sacky Shanghala had not been truthful about his financial declarations.
Imalwa claimed that Shanghala had received pension payouts and could afford legal fees but failed to disclose his financial situation.
State prosecutor revealed that Shanghala had accessed an Investec investment in South Africa, amounting to over four million dollars, to pay for his previous legal expenses. This, according to Marondedze, indicates that the former minister had not declared all of his assets.
The issue of legal representation remains a significant obstacle in the case, as some of the accused struggle to secure funding for their defense.
Some have applied to access their frozen assets to cover legal fees.
Judge Chinhengo questioned the state about potential solutions should the accused be unable 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 that the continued separation of the Fishrot accused at the Windhoek Correctional Facility hampers their ability to coordinate their defense 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, regardless of whether all accused have legal representation.
Imalwa contended that the proposed trial date of August 4, agreed upon by both parties, is unreasonable and suggested a more reasonable timeframe.
Nonetheless, Judge Chinhengo insisted that the trial must commence no later than the set date.