Fishrot accused bail hearing in court today

The bail hearing of six suspects in the #Fishrot corruption scandal started in the High Court today before judge Shafimana Ueitele with former National Fishing Corporation of Namibia (Fishcor) chief executive, Mike Nghipunya sharing his testimony in his bid to be released on bail. Nghipunya's lawyer, Tabang Patela, informed judge Ueitele that state evidence comprises roughly 80 000 documents that they will need to interpret, and with no trial date yet, it remains unfair for his client to languish in prison for a period nearing two years in February next year. Patela in his opening statement also indicated that he strongly feels his client will be acquitted at trial as no strong case exists against Nghipunya. Nghipunya on his part, shared his life story including his upbringing and career, saying he is ready to stand trial against the rumours implicating him and has assisted investigators to access evidence in his possession before he surrendered himself for arrest in February last year. In fact, he informed judge Ueitele, he knew of his arrest several months before, and neither attempted to flee the country or destroy any evidence. The state prosecutors have objected to the granting of bail against Nghipunye and his co-accused citing the serious nature of the case. The testimony continues in the High Court in the capital.

Photo Credits
NAMPA
Author
Kaipaherue Kandjii