Following the death of Namibian founding president Sam Nujoma, Breaking the Walls of Silence (BWS) critiques his failure to address the human rights abuses linked to the Lubango dungeons. Oiva Angula, representing BWS, acknowledges Nujoma’s crucial role in the country’s liberation but highlights the lasting pain caused by his inaction regarding wartime injustices. BWS remains dedicated to advocating for justice and reconciliation for the victims.
The organization representing victims of Swapo’s alleged Lubango dungeons reflects on the legacy of Namibia’s founding president, Sam Nujoma, following his death. According to Breaking the Walls of Silence (BWS), Nujoma’s absence in addressing the controversial issues surrounding the Lubango detention center, known for torture and killings during the 1980s, has left mixed sentiments across the nation. Oiva Angula, the acting chairperson of BWS, emphasized that Nujoma’s influence on Namibia’s political landscape was profound, both positively and negatively, shaping the country’s history significantly.
Angula recognizes Nujoma’s pivotal role in the independence struggle and his status as a national symbol. However, he also criticized Nujoma for failing to confront the abuses at the Lubango facility decisively, which he described as a shortcoming of Nujoma’s otherwise action-oriented governance. The years of trauma and suffering endured by countless individuals in exile under Nujoma’s leadership leave a complex legacy that cannot be overlooked.
Despite recognizing Nujoma as a critical figure in Namibia’s history, BWS has faced challenges in initiating dialogue regarding wartime injustices. Angula mentioned their efforts to engage Nujoma about the suffering inflicted on innocent freedom fighters but lamented that the opportunities for meaningful conversation never materialized. This contrasts with Swapo’s proclaimed values of reconciliation and forgiveness following independence.
Angula further reflected on the enduring impact of Nujoma’s leadership, stating it has not obliterated the painful memories experienced by many in exile during his presidency. Nonetheless, he emphasized the Namibian tradition of respecting the deceased, asserting that celebrating anyone’s death is unacceptable. BWS remains committed to pursuing restorative justice for the victims of Lubango, advocating for recognition and accountability.
The reflections on Sam Nujoma’s legacy reveal a complex interplay of admiration and criticism, highlighting both his role in Namibia’s independence and his failure to address significant human rights issues during his leadership. The organization Breaking the Walls of Silence underscores the importance of dialogue and reconciliation regarding past abuses within Swapo, maintaining a commitment to justice for the victims. While Nujoma’s death marks the end of an era, the memories of suffering endured under his leadership continue to shape the conversation surrounding his legacy.
Original Source: www.namibian.com.na
