The Omaruru District Swapo Party Youth League has strongly condemned the recent actions taken by the Omaruru Municipality, which saw the demolishing of an informal structure occupied by a vulnerable senior resident.

As a Youth League, we describe  the municipality’s actions as inhumane and lacking compassion for the socio-economic realities faced by many of Omaruru’s inhabitants. The demolition, which included a small tuckshop, was carried out without prior consultation or provision of alternative housing arrangements. This has left the elderly exposed and homeless .

We are deeply disturbed by the heartless approach taken by the Omaruru Municipality. While we understand the importance of urban planning and land management, such actions must be guided by empathy, dignity and due process.

Many  individuals who are settled in the area are unemployed, and the lack of affordable housing options in the town is another concern. These informal settlements are a symptom of deeper socio-economic issues which require long-term solutions rather than punitive responses.

We, therefore, call on the municipality to immediately halt further demolitions, and engage in meaningful dialogue with the communities in the Hakahana settlement. We also urge the Ministry of Urban and Rural Development to intervene and ensure that local authorities uphold the rights of all citizens, particularly the poor and marginalised.

We are not silent observers! We are sons and daughters of the soil. We know the pain of poverty. We understand the cries of the hungry. And we will not sit quietly while our people are displaced and discarded like they do not matter.

As the Youth League, we remain committed to fighting for the rights of the youth and the most vulnerable in our society. We call on all stakeholders to ensure that development is inclusive, just and humane, so I submit. 

I would also like to mention that this incident has opened a door within civil society, with many now echoing concerns and calling for accountability and sustainable urban housing policies in the town of Omaruru.

* Serron Nghoshi is the Omaruru SPYL District Secretary.