Namibia Mourns Slain Prosecutor Justine Shiweda

Namibians from across the country gathered in Onambango village near Ondangwa to honor the late state prosecutor Justine Shiweda, who was attacked in October 2025 and succumbed to her injuries in February 2026. The memorial service, held on Friday afternoon, was attended by dignitaries including Prime Minister Elijah Ngurare, representing President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, and John Walenga, Chairperson of the Ondonga Traditional Authority, representing Omukwaniilwa Fillemon Shuumbwa Nangolo. Other notable attendees included Home Affairs Minister Lucia Iipumbu, Attorney-General Festus Mbandeka, Director-General of the Anti-Corruption Commission Paulus Noa, Acting Prosecutor-General Martha Imalwa, and Deputy Inspector-General of the Namibian Police Anna-Marie Nainda.

Attorney-General Festus Mbandeka condemned the attack on Shiweda, describing it as a targeted assault on the rule of law and Namibia's democratic institutions. He emphasized the government's commitment to ensuring that Shiweda's death would not be in vain and announced measures to strengthen security for judicial officers and court officials.

The Law Society of Namibia (LSN) also called for a thorough investigation into Shiweda's murder and urged the government to prioritize the protection of judicial institutions and their personnel. LSN Chairperson Willem van Greunen highlighted the need to uphold justice and ensure the safety of legal professionals.

Shiweda, who was 31, was attacked in October 2025 after allegedly refusing bail to a suspect in a high-profile case. She was shot and doused with a corrosive substance, leading to severe injuries that resulted in her death after four months of hospitalization. Six suspects, including a medical doctor, have been arrested in connection with the attack.

The memorial service was held ahead of Shiweda's burial, scheduled for Saturday. The nation continues to mourn her loss and reflects on the importance of safeguarding those who serve within the justice system.