Lawyers representing former Fisheries and Marine Resources Minister Bernard Esau have requested that he be transported in a sedan or bus for his court appearances due to his health conditions.
Esau, who is represented by the Metcalfe Beaukes law firm, argued yesterday in the Windhoek High Court that the current transport arrangements in a van are not conducive and safe, given his health conditions and his age, 69.
It was further his argument that he does not pose a danger to police officers and that he could travel with them when he and his co-accused are brought to court.
In response, Judge Eileen Rakow said she could not pronounce herself on the matter as she is not the trial judge, adding that transport matters are dealt with by the Namibian Police Force (NamPol) and the Namibia Correctional Services.
The matter will return to court on 11 November 2026.
Esau was arrested in 2019 alongside former justice minister Sakeus Shanghala, former Investec Asset Management managing director James Hatuikulipi, Pius Mwatelulo, Tamson Hatuikulipi, Nigel van Wyk, Ricardo Gustavo, former Fishcor Chief Executive Officer Mike Nghipunya, Phillipus Mwapopi and Otneel Shuudifonya.
They allegedly received bribes from Icelandic fishing company Samherji, in exchange for fishing quotas.
– Nampa
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