Court proceedings across the country came to a standstill on Wednesday morning, as magistrates began a strike, leaving accused persons, lawyers, and prosecutors waiting in courtrooms with no presiding officers.

The strike follows ongoing calls by magistrates for improved salaries and benefits, amid concerns about increased workload caused by a shortage of judicial officers.

The previous administration approved increases in housing and car allowances for magistrates to bring them in line with equivalent grades in the public service.

A review found that the current benefits for magistrates did not align with those of similar grades elsewhere in government, prompting the adjustment.

In terms of housing benefits, a magistrate's allowance is set to rise from N$3,500 to N$4,700.

The cost implication of the housing allowance adjustment is expected to amount to an additional N$2 million for the 93 affected staff members, raising the total cost from N$6 million to N$8 million.

While salary increases for the 2024/25 financial year were not approved, the government directed that future increments be based on inflation and the general public service adjustment.

According to Judiciary spokesperson Vikitoria Hango, the Judiciary Office has taken note of the concerns raised by the magistrates.

She assured that the matter will receive urgent attention through consultations between key stakeholders in the administration of justice.

She added that the Chief Justice urged magistrates to refrain from continuing with industrial action while discussions are underway.

The Office of the Judiciary stated that it remains in consultation with all relevant parties to reach a resolution.