The Society for Advocates of Namibia has warned that a nationwide magistrates' strike is severely disrupting the justice system and endangering the public's right to access courts. Magistrates are reporting to work but are not presiding over criminal or civil cases or conducting trials.
The industrial action followed unsuccessful negotiations between the chief justice and the Magistrates' Commission regarding the government's plan to appoint 27 temporary magistrates. The Magistrates' and Judges' Association had previously criticized the removal of a ten-year experience requirement for these posts. The society is urging all parties to resolve the dispute quickly, stating that magistrates are indispensable for upholding the rule of law and the proper functioning of the legal system.
The industrial action followed unsuccessful negotiations between the chief justice and the Magistrates' Commission regarding the government's plan to appoint 27 temporary magistrates. The Magistrates' and Judges' Association had previously criticized the removal of a ten-year experience requirement for these posts. The society is urging all parties to resolve the dispute quickly, stating that magistrates are indispensable for upholding the rule of law and the proper functioning of the legal system.
