The Making of a Martyr

In the annals of history, martyrs have emerged time and again, immortalised for their commitment to justice and the causes they held dear. These remarkable individuals become beacons of hope, symbols of resistance and rallying points for change.

As we examine the past and look at other historical figures who’ve chosen resistance, we can compare their experiences to the treatment of imprisoned Namibian political activist Michael Amushelelo.

Through this, we are presented with a powerful lesson about the enduring legacy of those who gain a reputation for standing up.

Patrice Lumumba, the first democratically elected prime minister of the Congo, dreamed of a united and independent Africa. His vision for a decolonised nation, however, drew the ire of powerful international forces, leading to his assassination in 1961.

Lumumba’s legacy endures as a symbol of resistance against imperialism and a reminder of the lengths to which oppressors will go to silence those who challenge their authority.

Wangari Maathai, a Kenyan environmental and political activist, founded the Green Belt Movement to combat deforestation and promote sustainable development. Her advocacy for human rights and democracy drew the ire of the Kenyan government, leading to her arrest and imprisonment on multiple occasions.

Despite facing immense adversity, Maathai’s unwavering dedication to her cause earned her international acclaim, and she became the first African woman to win the Nobel Peace Prize, in 2004.

Drawing parallels to these historical figures, Amushelelo finds himself ensnared in a similar struggle, and whatever your opinion of him is, he is a well-loved and respected figure being restrained by an oppressive force.

Amushelelo has been an outspoken advocate for the rights of the marginalised in Namibia, especially the impoverished, the disenfranchised and the unemployed.

His activism seems to threaten the status quo, making him a target of the very forces he is challenging.

Imprisoned several months ago on charges many believe to be fabricated and exaggerated, Amushelelo has become a martyr in the making, a symbol of resistance against an oppressive regime that seeks to stifle dissent.

The more the authorities try to silence him, the louder his voice reverberates within the hearts of those who believe in his cause. He is quickly capturing young Namibians.

History has shown us that martyrs are not created by chance; they are the consequence of stringent forces trying to crush dissent and uphold their rule.

As someone who has been arrested and detained by my government for protesting (against gender-based violence in October 2020), I sympathise with Amushelelo. I can’t even imagine what his experience behind bars has been like, but I have noted his resilience through it all.

The nation is watching Amushelelo’s plight and we are reminded of the consequences of attempts to silence activists.

Attempts to quell resistance through imprisonment, torture, or even assassination have historically backfired, galvanising movements and inspiring a groundswell of support. The memory of these fallen heroes fuels the fire of future generations to continue the fight for justice, even in the face of overwhelming adversity.

What’s funny is that that is Namibia’s legacy. The dudes in charge now are the same people who resisted the oppressive structures before independence. Isn’t it poetic?

Those in power who believe that by stifling dissent they can maintain control are reminded of the stories of Steve Biko, Patrice Lumumba, Wangari Maathai, Thomas Sankara and the most famous martyr of them all: Jesus Christ.

As we reflect on these historical figures and Amushelelo’s plight, let us be reminded that the struggle for justice is not easily extinguished. It is a relentless force that will persist, even in the face of adversity, until a brighter, more equitable future is realised.

The spirit of these martyrs lives on, reminding us that their sacrifice will forever be etched in history, and their fight for justice will endure, carried forward by the hearts and minds of those who refuse to be silenced.

• Anne Hambuda is a poet, writer and commentator. Follow her online or email her annehambuda@gmail.com for more.