The organization Breaking the Walls of Silence stated that founding president Sam Nujoma’s death brings mixed feelings due to his controversial legacy. Allegations of torture and execution at Lubango dungeons marred his leadership during Namibia’s independence struggle. While he is recognized as a symbol of nationhood, he failed to engage in necessary dialogues for justice regarding his government’s actions at that time.
An organization representing victims of the alleged Lubango dungeons criticized founding president Sam Nujoma for not addressing the controversial incidents before his death. In the 1980s, Swapo was accused of torturing and executing Namibians suspected of espionage at the Lubango detention center in Angola.
The organization, Breaking the Walls of Silence (BWS), expressed mixed sentiments about Nujoma’s impact on Namibia in their condolence message. Acting Chairperson Oiva Angula stated, “Indeed, for better or for worse, no man has had more impact on the state and the politics of this country than Nujoma… his leadership and legacy invoked and encapsulated mixed and diverse feelings in the Land of the Brave.”
While Nujoma is viewed as a symbol of nationhood and played a crucial role in Namibia’s independence, Angula lamented his failure to address the injustices of the Lubango incidents. He criticized Nujoma’s leadership during the liberation struggle for the suffering endured by numerous freedom fighters detained by the movement’s officers.
Angula revealed that after Namibia’s independence, the BWS sought to engage Nujoma to discuss the wartime injustices and restore the names and reputations of the victims. Despite the Swapo Party’s commitment to reconciliation, the BWS was unable to have meaningful discussions with Nujoma about these issues.
While Nujoma’s passing marks the end of his physical presence, Angula emphasized that it does not erase the painful memories held by many who suffered under his leadership. He noted that in line with African cultural values, it is customary not to celebrate anyone’s death, regardless of past actions.
Angula affirmed that the BWS will persist in its efforts to engage with Swapo and the government to attain true reconciliation and restorative justice for the victims of Lubango, both those deceased and those still unaccounted for.
In conclusion, Sam Nujoma’s death evokes a complex legacy in Namibia, marked by both his role in the country’s liberation and the alleged atrocities committed under his leadership. The Breaking the Walls of Silence organization has reiterated its commitment to seeking acknowledgment and justice for victims of the Lubango dungeons. Dialogue and reconciliation remain critical objectives as Namibia continues to address its painful past.
Original Source: www.namibian.com.na
