Windhoek:Late former Chief Justice Johan Strydom was commemorated as a pivotal figure in shaping Namibia's post-independence judiciary. Chief Justice Peter Shivute honored Strydom's nearly four decades of service as a lasting contribution to justice and the rule of law.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Chief Justice Shivute, speaking at a valedictory court session at the Supreme Court, highlighted Strydom's role in transforming Namibia's judiciary from a rights-repressing system into one grounded in judicial independence. Strydom, who passed away last Friday, was 88 years old.

Strydom's legal career began as a prosecutor, and he later practiced as an advocate. He joined the Bench in 1983, became Judge President of the High Court in 1990, and served as Namibia's third Chief Justice from 1999 until his retirement in 2003. He continued as an acting Supreme Court judge until 2015.

In addition to his judicial roles, Strydom chaired the first Electoral Commission, the first Delimitation Commission, and the Judicial Service Commission. He was known for delivering and supporting judgments that advanced human rights, including setting aside a certificate that aimed to halt a trial of individuals accused of killing Immanuel Shifidi.

Attorney General Festus Mbandeka described Strydom as a jurist dedicated to the Namibian Constitution's values and aspirations. Mbandeka noted Strydom's commitment to purposive constitutional interpretation and remembered him as calm, attentive, and eager to share his experiences.

Chief Justice Shivute emphasized that Strydom's legacy would endure through the judiciary, jurisprudence, and institutions he influenced.