The long-running case involving former agriculture minister Mac-Albert Hengari and his co-accused took a new turn today after the court relaxed several of their bail conditions during a brief appearance in the Windhoek Magistrate’s Court.
Hengari was arrested last year for allegedly attempting to bribe a woman who had accused him of sexually assaulting her. The alleged interference with the complainant led to a separate criminal investigation, which is still under review.
Presiding magistrate Monica Andjamba ruled that the accused will no longer be required to report to the police station every week—a condition that has been in place since their initial release on bail. She also authorised that, should any of them need to travel outside Namibia, they may temporarily retrieve their passports from the investigating officer.
Despite the eased restrictions, the court maintained key safeguards: the accused must not make contact with State witnesses and must inform the investigating officer whenever they intend to leave the Windhoek district.
The case was brought back to court to determine whether Prosecutor General Martha Imalwa intends to move ahead with prosecution, including finalising potential charges and identifying the appropriate court for trial. However, Imalwa requested additional time, saying a decision has not yet been reached.
Magistrate Andjamba granted a final extension, postponing the matter to 13 February 2026. Should the Prosecutor General fail to provide a final decision by that date, the case will be struck from the roll.
