STAFF WRITER
President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaiwah has raised concern over increasing criminal cases against tourists.
Speaking at the official opening of the judicial system on Thursday ,Nandi-Ndaitwah warned that the criminal cases pose a threat on the performance of the tourism industry.
“ I am also concerned by recent reports of increasing criminal acts against visitors and tourists in our country. Some nations have begun to classify Namibia as an unsafe destination for their citizens. This trend poses a serious risk and threat to the tourism sector, which remains one of the leading contributors to our Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and a vital source of employment for many Namibians,” Nandi-Ndaitwah.
Nandi-Ndaitwah added that, “ Our courts must continue to guarantee equitable access to justice for all, regardless of nationality, and ensure that those who commit crimes are held accountable under the law. A trusted and effective justice system strengthens Namibia’s reputation internationally as a safe, reliable, and welcoming destination.”
The President said Namibians expect equitable and timely access to justice.
“They expect cases to be heard and concluded within reasonable timeframes. The backlog of cases is a long-standing challenge that must be addressed with urgency and resolve,” she said
The president also called for the judiciary to also pay attention to cases that include the abuse of national resources.
“Some of these matters involve the abuse of public resources. When such cases remain unresolved for extended periods, public confidence in our institutions
is weakened, and our national development efforts are compromised.
I therefore, call upon all stakeholders in the legal fraternity to work together to turn this situation around, in pursuit of a just and accountable Namibia, in alignment with Vision 2030, Agenda 2063 of the African Union, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 16 on Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions,” she said.
COMMENTS