Erasmus Shalihaxwe
Chief justice Peter Shivute says the High Court is facing a shortage of judges due to the retirement of experienced members and a growing caseload.
He noted that although there has been interest from prospective candidates, recruiting suitably qualified judges remains difficult, particularly in the civil stream.
He explained that many potential candidates lack exposure to High Court civil practice and procedure.
Shivute’s remarks were delivered on Wednesday by deputy chief justice Petrus Damaseb at the opening of the 2025 High Court aspirant judges training programme in Windhoek.
The two-week training programme was introduced to bridge this gap. It aims to equip candidates with the legal skills needed for judicial service by deepening their knowledge of High Court practice and procedure, sharpening legal analysis, and strengthening their understanding of substantive and procedural law.
“While it will also provide insight into the practical realities, demands, and expectations of judicial service at that level,’’ said Shivute.
He stressed that the role of a judge carries heavy responsibilities.
Judges must work under constant scrutiny, decide cases impartially, and uphold the highest standards of integrity, impartiality, and independence.
“It is a position where the decisions made can have far-reaching consequences. Yet, despite the challenges and the pressure, it is also one of the most rewarding forms of public service, one that offers the privilege of making a lasting difference in people’s lives and in the administration of justice,” he said.
Shivute urged candidates to seize the chance to be trained by experienced judges, some of whom were once in the same program.
‘’Use these two weeks to hone your legal skills, to learn from the experiences of those who have walked the judicial path, and to prepare yourselves for the responsibilities that may one day rest upon your shoulders. Work hard, stay engaged, and give your best, both in the training sessions and in the examinations that will follow,’’ Shivute concluded.
