Omuthiya — A new periodic magistrate's court is scheduled to open in Omuthiya, the regional capital of Oshikoto, by the end of October, aiming to alleviate the caseload currently burdening the Ondangwa Magistrate's Court. This initiative was detailed during an evaluation meeting on Monday.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the chief legal clerk of the Ondangwa Magistrate's Court, a significant portion of the cases they handle, over 67 percent, originates from Omuthiya. Shafudah noted that daily, between 45 and 60 inmates from Omuthiya are processed at the Ondangwa Magistrate's Court. "We want to curb this influx of cases from Omuthiya and the surrounding areas by opening a court in Omuthiya so that these cases are dealt with in the area," Shafudah explained.

The establishment of the periodic court is also anticipated to reduce transportation costs for residents traveling 87 kilometers to Ondangwa and 167 kilometers to Tsumeb for court appearances. "This will also help to cut costs for witness compensation such as traveling expenses, money spent on refreshments and meals, overnight subsistence, and other money lost when the witnesses come to testify in court," added Shafudah.

Initially, the periodic court will operate from Ondangwa, with judicial staff commuting daily to handle cases throughout the week. The team will include a magistrate, prosecutor, and administrative personnel such as a clerk and court interpreter.

"We have a plot in Omuthiya but we are waiting for the budget so we can develop it," Shafudah concluded, indicating future plans for a permanent court facility.