Namibian watchdog should act against legal practitioners implicated in massive corruption

FREEDOM Under Law (FUL) views with deep concern the implications for the rule of law throughout the region of this week’s revelations of corruption at the highest levels of government in Namibia, as uncovered in the Al Jazeera documentary, Anatomy of a Bribe.

The probe reflects ruthless misuse of one of Namibia’s important natural resources, its fishing industry, which yields R11 billion in revenue per year. Using what it presents as detailed banking and other records, and hidden camera recordings of secret meetings, it provides a shocking example of how corruption-enablers in the region simultaneously impoverish ordinary people, enrich themselves and strip Africa’s natural resources. Among those alleged to be involved are a Icelandic fishing company, ministers, officials, lawyers, front companies, as well as Angolan interests.

FUL applauds the decisive action taken by Namibia’s AntiCorruption Commission, its police and prosecuting authority by, within days, arresting and charging two ministers and senior officials.

Of particular concern to FUL is the crucial enabling role alleged to have been played by private legal practitioners in making the fraudulent and corrupt schemes possible by acting as conduits and facilitators. FUL calls upon the Namibian Law Society to follow the example of the Anti-Corruption Commission by investigating the latter allegations without delay. They concern the former chief law officer and thereafter justice minister, as well as a senior private law firm.

As far as FUL is aware, the society has yet to comment or take action, except to note that it has received no formal complaint against any legal practitioner. In the face of such damning allegations against some of the most prominent members of the legal profession in Namibia, the response by the society seems entirely inadequate.

Prompt and resolute investigative and disciplinary action by the watchdog of the legal profession, protector of the public and ally of the administration of justice in Namibia, the Namibian Law Society, is now required.

NICOLE FRITZ |