High Court reserves judgement in Amushelelo appeal

The Windhoek High Court has reserved judgement on the bail appeal application of Michael Amushelelo, a prominent Social Justice activist, until the 14th of August.

Amushelelo was arrested alongside Dimbulukeni Nauyoma and Ina Hengari from the PDM party in March of this year during their participation in a youth unemployment protest.

The three faced charges of incitement to public violence and damage to property, among other things.

While Hengari and Nauyoma were released on bail, Amushelelo was remanded in custody.

In response, his lawyer, Kadhila Amoomo, has appealed the decision of the magistrate in the High Court.

Amoomo argues that the magistrate’s court erred in denying Amushelelo bail while granting it to the other two accused who face the same charges.

Furthermore, Amoomo highlighted that there is sufficient reason to believe that the state has a weaker case, as the investigator testified that there was no proof of wrongdoing.

The state, however, opposes granting bail, citing concerns that the accused has the propensity to repeat the same crime if released.

Amushelelo spoke to nbc News and affirmed that despite his liberty being taken away, he remains determined to continue his fight against socio-economic injustices.
“My wife is still not doing well, and she is my number one priority and concern. Things become difficult when you are not home.”
“But I am more than prepared to face whatever challenges they throw at me, but the struggle against injustice and inequality is a struggle that should not stop.”

Lawyer Amoomo expressed confidence in the justice system and is hopeful that his client will be granted bail.

“We were just trying to demonstrate to the court that our client is a perfect candidate for bail because the investigating officer confirmed that there was no evidence on that day and therefore he should not have been arrested, but the matter remains in the hands of the court. Let us wait for them to pronounce themselves.”

The High Court is expected to pronounce itself on August 14, this year, on Amushelelo’s appeal.