Africa-Press – Namibia.
Former agriculture minister Mac-Albert Hengari has issued a formal demand to government, seeking N$10 million in damages for what he describes as an unlawful arrest, detention and prosecution, according to a letter from his legal representatives.
In the letter dated 20 March 2026 and addressed to the Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security, Hengari’s lawyers allege that his arrest in April 2025 was carried out without a warrant and in violation of his constitutional rights. They have given authorities 30 days to settle the claim, failing which legal proceedings will be instituted against several parties, including the minister, the inspector general of police and other officials.
According to the letter, Hengari was arrested on the 26th of April 2025 and remained in custody for more than three months before being granted bail and released on 7 August 2025.
His legal team argues that the prolonged detention was unjustified and that he was not properly informed of the grounds for his arrest at the time.
The claim also raises concerns about the manner in which the case was handled.
Hengari’s lawyers state that he was later charged with offences including defeating or obstructing the course of justice, as well as corruption-related allegations. However, they contend that these charges were pursued without sufficient legal basis and amounted to malicious prosecution.
In addition to the alleged procedural irregularities, the letter outlines the impact of the arrest on Hengari’s personal and professional life.
His legal team claims he suffered reputational harm, loss of liberty and significant financial losses because of the case.
The lawyers further argue that the actions of the authorities infringed several provisions of the Namibian Constitution, including protections relating to personal liberty and the right to a fair trial.
They maintain that the State failed in its duty to act lawfully and within the bounds of due process.
Hengari’s legal representatives have indicated that the N$10 million demand is an attempt to resolve the matter without going to court.
However, they warn that if the claim is not honoured within the stipulated timeframe, summons will be issued and the matter will proceed through the courts.
The development adds another layer to the ongoing legal saga involving the former minister, whose case has drawn public attention since his arrest last year. Government authorities had not publicly responded to the demand at the time of going to press.
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