Staff Writer
Attorney general Festus Mbandeka says stronger legal compliance across state institutions and state-owned enterprises will reduce court cases and improve governance.
He made the remarks during a stakeholder engagement session hosted by his office in the Erongo region on Monday.
Mbandeka said government entities must follow laws and improve how they work to avoid costly litigation.
“Together, we can foster a culture of legal compliance within state institutions and SOE entities by promoting voluntary compliance and using best practices to streamline processes and reduce litigation costs,” he said.
The session forms part of a nationwide programme to strengthen cooperation between the attorney general’s office and regional and local authorities.
The meeting brought together regional leaders, including Erongo governor Nathalia |Goagoses, the Erongo Regional Council, local authorities and officials from government institutions and state-owned enterprises.
The attorney general is the main legal adviser to the President and government.
Mbandeka’s office also supports regional councils, local authorities and SOEs.
“The function of the attorney general as the principal legal adviser to the President and government encompasses providing legal advice and legal representation,” he said.
The engagement in Erongo is part of visits to all 14 regions. It is the eighth region covered so far after Omusati, Oshana, Oshikoto, Ohangwena, Kavango West, Kavango East and Kunene.
Mbandeka said the sessions help institutions understand when to seek legal advice and how to avoid legal disputes.
“The understanding of applicable and empowering laws and regulations improves respect for the rule of law, promotes good governance and minimises the risk of legal challenges against the government, which has serious financial implications,” he said.
He said failure to obey the law affects how government institutions operate and damages trust in legal processes.
The meetings also give stakeholders a chance to share feedback on the attorney general’s office and suggest improvements.
Mbandeka said the feedback will guide changes aimed at improving efficiency and providing faster legal support.
“I strongly encourage regional councils and local authorities and all participants to use this opportunity to ask any questions or make contributions related to their work and portfolio and how they want to see OAG improve and serve them better,” he said.
