It is the stuff of developing and mature democracies to allow different
views and opinions to be canvassed and promoted by different political
and social interests, and so it should be.
But in recent months, events at Omuthiya, Omusati, Tobias Hainyeko and
Greenwell Matongo have left more than just simply a bitter taste.
If these events are an indication as to what might happen as the
elections get under way and when temperatures rise, then it is our duty
and constitutional right to warn Namibians of the dangers of reckless
and confrontational behaviour, which can lead not only to potential
ungovernability but also injury and even death.
The recent political thuggery of Swapo Party supporters, often
encouraged by senior party officials, in declaring "no-go" zones for
other parties to canvass support and to peddle their ideas to our
population is completely unacceptable.
Our Constitution guarantees people the right to peaceful assembly,
wherever that may be in the country and regardless of which group they
represent.
All political parties, including the Rally for Democracy and Progress,
the Congress of Democrats, the All People’s Party, the UDF, the DTA,
the Republican Party, Nudo and others, are entitled to promote and
canvass support for their ideas.
Swapo has NO right to prevent them from doing so.
All political parties must likewise exercise restraint and avoid
provocation of opposing groups and all political leaders must instil in
their supporters the need to comply.
But in particular, given recent events, The Namibian appeals to the
Swapo leadership to inform their cadres, supporters and structures to
stop this undemocratic behaviour and dictatorial insanity.
Party officials have to lead by example and demonstrate their belief in
non-violent methods of conflict resolution through being on the ground
to guide their supporters.
We cannot afford, nor do we want our country to descend into anarchy.
Post published in: Uncategorized