Windhoek — The trial of Barbara Kahatjipara (39), who faces a charge of fraud after she allegedly defrauded her former employer, the Namibian Employers Federation (NEF) of N$57 000, could not proceed for plea as Kahatjipara is out of the country.

State prosecutor Erich Naikaku informed Magistrate Stanley Mwilima Tembwe that the former Miss Namibia's lawyer Jan Wessels had informed him that Kahatjipara was out of the country attending a seminar.

He added that a date has been agreed between the two parties on which the matter could proceed, which is June 27 - 28.

Prosecutor Naikaku requested that a warrant of arrest be issued but that it be put on hold until June 27 2013.

Magistrate Tembwe said that the accused prioritised to travel during the time of her trial. "I will not condone it. I am reluctant to give a postponement."

The magistrate then granted the request for a remand.

Kahatjipara was arrested in 2011 for allegedly defrauding her former employer by diverting around N$57 000 from the account of the NEF to her personal bank account.

The former beauty queen was crowned Miss Namibia in 1993.

Kahatjipara is out on bail of N$5 000.