Magistrate Linus Samunzala acquitted activists Michael Amushelelo and Dimbulukeni Nauyoma, citing insufficient evidence as the grounds for their discharge.
This verdict brought seven months of detainment for Michael Amushelelo to a close, following his arrest on March 21 of this year. It’s worth noting that he was arrested alongside Dimbulukeni Nauyoma and parliamentarian Inna Hengari, both of whom were granted bail at the amount of N$5,000 each.
The trial began on October 11, 2023, and concluded on October 12, 2023, during which time a groundswell of support for Amushelelo had been building. On the 11th, supporters organized a protest under the banner “free Amushelelo,” highlighting the widespread demand for his release.
On the 12th, as the courtroom proceedings were underway, an unexpected twist occurred when the lights suddenly went out. Despite the momentary disruption, the trial continued.
Magistrate Linus Samunzala played a pivotal role in this case by deeming the testimony of the state’s primary witness, Chief Inspector Frederick Ndjatila, as inconsequential. Additionally, he dismissed another oral statement provided by a police officer, asserting that these accounts from law enforcement officers were riddled with contradictions.
Throughout the course of the trial, the state called upon eight witnesses, all of whom were members of the Namibian Police Force. However, the court’s findings concluded that none of these witnesses succeeded in establishing the guilt of Amushelelo and Nauyoma. Instead, their testimonies presented a web of contradictions, ultimately leading to the acquittal of the two activists.
This decision marks a significant moment in the legal and human rights landscape, celebrating the principle of justice and the resilience of those who had advocated for Michael Amushelelo’s freedom.
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