WINDHOEK – Founding president Dr Sam Nujoma on Saturday said he was filled with humility and pride for being blessed with leading the first phase of the liberation struggle that ushered Namibia to its independence and sovereignty.
Namibians from all walks of life assembled at the Dr Sam Nujoma Stadium in Windhoek to celebrate the legacy of the country’s first president, Dr Sam Nujoma, commemorating what has now become known as the ‘12 May Movement’, a term coined by the Swapo Party Youth League to celebrate the legacy and life of the veteran statesman. The day 12 May is Nujoma’s birthday. He turned 85 years this year.
Speaking at the gathering, which saw several local artists entertaining the crowd, Nujoma also said he was humbled to be recognised by the multitude of people who gathered to celebrate the 12 May Movement and all that it stands for, including strengthening the bonds of friendship and solidarity. Saturday’s celebrations marked the third 12 May Movement gathering. The first was held in Walvis Bay and the second in Okatana.
Nujoma said it was time for Namibians to reflect on the journey travelled by fellow compatriots towards the attainment of political freedom.
Nujoma said the government has made great strides and achieved numerous successes since independence 24 years ago. “We have put our country on an irreversible path of socio-economic development. We have promoted the policy of national reconciliation and adopted the motto of ‘One Namibia, One Nation’. We have also laid the foundation for democratic governance,” said the founding president.
“As you all know, fighting against the minority white colonial regime of South Africa was not easy but we prevailed because we were united and fought with vigour and determination from the 26th of August 1966, when we launched our armed liberation struggle, to the 21st of March 1990, when we achieved our freedom and genuine independence,” said Nujoma.
He urged Namibians to continue the fight for the total economic independence of Namibia and the entire African continent, including the diaspora.
President Hifikepunye Pohamba, in a speech delivered on his behalf by Khomas Governor and Swapo Party Deputy Secretary General Laura Mcleod-Katjirua, said Nujoma’s unwavering leadership would never be forgotten. “Comrade Nujoma’s name has become synonymous with Namibia’s freedom and independence, and will indeed remain part of Namibia’s rich history,” he said.
Pohamba called for the history of the liberation struggle to be taught to young Namibians so that they know the country’s freedom was achieved through bloodshed and sacrifice. He lauded Nujoma for being a “genuine Pan-African” who laid the foundation for democratic leadership and smooth transition of power.
The crowd, which consisted mostly of young Namibians, rose in applause as soon as they saw Nujoma’s official car driving into the stadium. The applause got even louder when he stepped out of his car with his wife, Kovambo Nujoma, by his side.
Members of parliament, business people and some foreign delegates from sister parties and liberation movements, dignitaries and members from the diplomatic corps attended the celebration as well.
Some of those who delivered birthday messages included liberation stalwart and founding secretary of the Swapo Party Elders’ Council, Kanana Hishoono, Swapo Party Women’s Council Secretary, Petrina Haingura and Swapo Party Elders’ Council Deputy Secretary, Mary Masule.
By Mathias Haufiku
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