Let’s Not Confuse Issues

LIKE all Namibians, I’ve been following the debate on the ICC submission against Sam Nujoma by Phil Ya Nangoloh.

Let me be clear, I do not support Ya Nangoloh’s initiative, but for reasons other than those recited by fellow opponents. However, I have a question to pose to my fellow objectors.Where is this “policy of national reconciliation” outlined? The only time “reconciliation” is mentioned in our Constitution is in the preamble, in the following sentence: “Whereas the people of Namibia will strive to achieve national reconciliation and to foster peace, unity and a common loyalty to a single state.”Ya Nangoloh’s claim is not tantamount to violating this policy.He’s not leading a separatist movement or exacting revenge on those who collaborated with the enemy during the struggle.Because of Ya Nangoloh’s claims are we at war? Are we divided in our loyalty to Namibia? No.We’re only divided in our opinions as to whether we agree or disagree with Ya Nangoloh.People must stop confusing Sam Nujoma with Namibia.One is a man, granted, THE man who led us to freedom, and the other is a nation of nearly two million people.Because Ya Nangoloh attacks Nujoma does not mean he also attacks Namibia.Because Nujoma’s reputation is at stake does not mean Namibian peace and stability have to be disrupted.I support Swapo, but I’m disappointed and disgusted by the SYL’s militant response and their talk of “war.”Now that is a violation of our “policy of national reconciliation” if not hypocrisy.Where’s the logic in claiming to defend the “policy of national reconciliation” with threats to Ya Nangoloh and the NSHR? How does that promote peace? Please, let us not forget what is important here: our nation Namibia, its stability, its peace and the growth of our democracy.Linovene, USAHowever, I have a question to pose to my fellow objectors.Where is this “policy of national reconciliation” outlined? The only time “reconciliation” is mentioned in our Constitution is in the preamble, in the following sentence: “Whereas the people of Namibia will strive to achieve national reconciliation and to foster peace, unity and a common loyalty to a single state.”Ya Nangoloh’s claim is not tantamount to violating this policy.He’s not leading a separatist movement or exacting revenge on those who collaborated with the enemy during the struggle.Because of Ya Nangoloh’s claims are we at war? Are we divided in our loyalty to Namibia? No.We’re only divided in our opinions as to whether we agree or disagree with Ya Nangoloh.People must stop confusing Sam Nujoma with Namibia.One is a man, granted, THE man who led us to freedom, and the other is a nation of nearly two million people.Because Ya Nangoloh attacks Nujoma does not mean he also attacks Namibia.Because Nujoma’s reputation is at stake does not mean Namibian peace and stability have to be disrupted.I support Swapo, but I’m disappointed and disgusted by the SYL’s militant response and their talk of “war.”Now that is a violation of our “policy of national reconciliation” if not hypocrisy.Where’s the logic in claiming to defend the “policy of national reconciliation” with threats to Ya Nangoloh and the NSHR? How does that promote peace? Please, let us not forget what is important here: our nation Namibia, its stability, its peace and the growth of our democracy.Linovene, USA