The High Court is set to proceed with the case of Brian Jaftha, an imprisoned cannabis activist who is suing correctional authorities for N$1.2 million after his dreadlocks were forcibly cut. Jaftha contends that the act violated his religious rights as a committed follower of the Rastafarian faith.
According to court filings, Jaftha has adhered to Rastafarian beliefs for over 20 years, observing Nazarene vows that require followers to grow their hair as an expression of spiritual devotion. He asserts that the forced removal of his dreadlocks constitutes religious discrimination against the Rastafarian community, which he describes as a vulnerable and marginalized group.
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Jaftha’s legal argument is based on the constitutional right to religious freedom, which guarantees all individuals the ability to practice and manifest their religion without interference. He maintains that the actions of prison officials directly infringed upon this right, amounting to a breach of personal autonomy and bodily integrity.
In addition to seeking financial compensation, Jaftha is also demanding recognition of the rights of Rastafarian inmates to maintain their religious practices while in custody. The lawsuit highlights broader concerns regarding religious discrimination within Namibia’s correctional system.
The case continues in the High Court, where legal experts anticipate a significant ruling on religious rights and institutional policies.
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