TSX-V-listed copper explorer and developer Deep-South Resources reports that the legal counsel of Namibia’s Ministry of Mines and Energy has failed to file its defence affidavit in the refusal of a licence for the Haib copper project, as ordered by the High Court of Namibia on November 25, 2021.

The renewal of the exclusive prospecting licence (EPL) 3140 covering Deep-South’s southern Namibia-based Haib copper project was refused by Namibia Mines and Energy Minister Tom Alweendo on June 16, 2021.

At the time, the Ministry cited Deep-South’s inability to advance the licence to prefeasibility stage and complete the proposed drilling programme as planned.

However, at the time, Deep-South said it was convinced the issue was a misunderstanding, that the Namibia Mines and Energy Ministry was informed, with no objection, of a proposed change from the PFS to an upgraded preliminary economic assessment and the start of a full feasibility study.

In addition, Deep-South stated in July 2021 that the Ministry had issued all permits required for the drilling programme and was well aware that Deep-South had completed the drilling programme.

Going forward, Deep-South says, its legal counsel vigorously opposes the extension request and requests the judge ensure a “just and speedy determination” of the case.

The court will hold another hearing on March 3, where the latest request of the Namibia Mines and Energy Ministry will be considered.

Deep-South intends to “vigorously contest” this decision by all means necessary and available, including under the Minerals (Prospecting and Mining) Act and other applicable laws of Namibia.

Deep-South says the Ministry’s counsel stated that it has discovered new documents, which are not part of the record of proceedings, and has consequently requested an extension to file those documents. The legal counsel filed a joint status report with the court on February 28.

Deep-South’s legal counsel recorded in this status report that the Namibia Mines and Energy Ministry’s counsel previously indicated a complete record having been filed.

However, Deep-South says that, since the start of the procedures, the Namibia Mines and Energy Ministry has failed to provide any evidence supporting the decision of Alweendo to not renew the Haib copper EPL 3140.