The Ministry of Justice and Labour Relations has called for stronger artificial intelligence (AI) governance frameworks to support the digital transformation of justice services, warning that AI-powered systems must remain transparent, accountable and subject to human oversight.
The Ministry’s Executive Director, Audrin Mathe, said the growing adoption of AI in legal and administrative processes requires clear safeguards to prevent algorithmic decisions from undermining individual rights and public trust.
Speaking at the 2026 Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Global Roundtable on Equal Access to Justice in Istanbul, Türkiye, on Wednesday, Mathe said AI governance must become a central component of digital justice reforms.
“Responsibility cannot be delegated to an algorithm. People should know when AI is used. They should be able to challenge an outcome. Higher risk requires stronger oversight,” Mathe said.
He identified AI-powered case management, online dispute resolution, workflow automation and data analytics as technologies capable of improving operational efficiency and reducing administrative burdens within justice institutions.
However, Mathe cautioned that introducing digital tools without adequate oversight could create new risks, particularly where automated systems influence legal processes or outcomes.
He also warned that the increasing use of generative AI by individuals and businesses could lead to a surge in inaccurate, complex or excessive legal submissions, potentially overwhelming existing administrative systems and creating additional delays.
Mathe called for clear digital filing standards and proportionate verification mechanisms to manage AI-generated legal content and maintain the integrity of justice processes.
He further urged justice institutions to move beyond fragmented technology pilot projects and focus on scaling proven digital solutions through interoperable standards, secure infrastructure, workforce training and continuous performance monitoring.
According to Mathe, the success of AI adoption should be assessed through measurable improvements in processing times, operating costs, accuracy, fairness and user experience.
“We should measure timeliness, cost, accuracy, fairness and user experience. Success means better and more trusted outcomes,” he said.
Mathe also highlighted the risks of digital exclusion, warning that technology-driven reforms could disadvantage citizens without reliable internet connectivity, digital devices or the skills needed to navigate online justice platforms.
“A digital doorway is useful only when a human doorway remains open,” he said.
He cited Namibia’s State of Justice Summit, held from 16 to 18 September 2026, as part of efforts to examine how digital technologies could improve justice delivery while preserving accessibility and public confidence.
Although Namibia is not an OECD member, Mathe said the rapid expansion of AI across justice systems presented shared challenges requiring international cooperation, common approaches to governance and the exchange of practical experience.
“Our priorities are clear. Scale what works. Govern AI responsibly. Keep human judgement at the centre. Protect access. The choice is not between innovation and rights. Innovation must serve rights. Efficiency must serve humanity,” Mathe said.
