Doctors and nurses possess a degree of social currency within their communities which is not limited to health matters. They are regarded as thought leaders on matters of public interest such as the deteriorating quality of healthcare at institutions such as state hospitals, primary healthcare centres and clinics. In the High Court of Namibia last month, judge Beatrix de Jager found retired nurse Mathilde Kadhikwa liable for defaming medical supplies middleman Shapwa Kanyama and his wife, Beata Kanyama. The ruling not only sets a precedent in terms of what constitutes freedom of speech and fair comment in Namibia but undermines the ability of nurses and doctors to advocate for the rights of patients when it comes to accessing quality and affordable healthcare. At times, Namibian public health facilities have run
