Convicted Murderer and Former Magistrate Sue for Conjugal Visits and Better Conditions

Kevan Townsend, an American convicted of murder, and former magistrate Jaco Kennedy, awaiting trial, appeared in the Windhoek High Court seeking conjugal and private family visits. They are suing various officials, including the Minister of Home Affairs and the Commissioner General of the Namibian Correctional Service, alleging rights violations. The two claim their 2021 request for privileges like conjugal visits and amenities was ignored, and they suffer from inhumane treatment, including extended daily lockup in poor cell conditions. The Windhoek Correctional Facility’s Officer-in-Charge, Veiko Armas, stated that electricity-charged radios are banned, and cells lack electrical sockets by design.