A full bench of High Court judges will hear the case of cannabis activist Brian Jaftha, who is seeking the legalization of dagga in Namibia. 

The matter, initially scheduled for a status hearing, was postponed by High Court Judge Eileen Rakow to July 2.

In a new development, the state has requested the case be put on hold until the Law Reform and Development Commission (LRDC) finalizes its report on the legal recommendations of cannabis use. 

The LRDC has been working on the report for nearly four years.

The state hopes the report’s recommendations will reflect the moral standards, aspirations, and values of the Namibian people regarding cannabis use.

Jaftha, an avid advocate for cannabis, argues that the plant holds religious significance. Among a myriad of other requests, he is also seeking a court order for the release of individuals currently imprisoned for cannabis-related offenses.

He is represented by Lawyer Kadhila Amoomo.

Jaftha has another ongoing legal battle after authorities at the Windhoek Correctional Facility cut his dreadlocks without his permission.

He says the action by the authorities undermined his religion, that of the Nazarene.  He is suing the corrections boss for N$2.5 million.