PDM decries ‘haunting melodies of Ndilimani’ at independence celebrations
Popular Democratic Movement (PDM) lawmaker Hidipo Hamata says having the Swapo band, Ndilimani Cultural Troupe, headlining entertainment at national independence celebrations, as was the case in Katima Mulilo last week, does not unify Namibians across the political divide.
Hamata, who also serves as the party’s secretary for information and publicity, lamented the attempts by the ruling party to hijack the sacred day for its own political gain, urging instead for music that reflected the spirit of inclusivity and hope.
He said independence is a moment for all Namibians to come together, regardless of political affiliations, to commemorate the birth of the nation. “Playing Ndilimani songs on this momentous day is disappointing and immature of the current government. They are betraying the spirit of inclusivity and national unity that Independence Day represents,” he said.
Govt exploitation
According to Hamata, political leaders attending these celebrations do so as proud citizens of Namibia, driven by their love for the country and its people - not as members of a particular political party.
It is thus deeply concerning to witness exploitation by the current government, squandering taxpayer money under the guise of organising Independence Day events that serve as mere political rallies, he said. “PDM staunchly opposes the Swapo-led government’s attempts to taint this important day with partisan politics. This practice must cease immediately and be consigned to history.”
He further called for the preservation of peace and unity, recognising its essentiality for the prosperity and stability of the nation for generations to come. “Witnessing leaders from different political parties come together under one roof to celebrate this momentous day is a rare and precious thing – a testament to Namibia’s commitment to unity and political maturity.”
Urging the Swapo-led government to respect the sanctity of Independence Day, he said the party ought to focus on celebrating the country's achievements and rededicate itself to building a brighter future for all.
“We should be pushing for self-sufficiency, creating employment and harnessing our natural resources.”
The root cause of poverty
Hamata said the 34-year mark is an imperative milestone for the country, adding that he envisions every citizen enjoying equal access to clean water, education and food security. “While celebrating independence with hope and optimism of prosperity for all, we cannot overlook the irony of a Namibia where people are reduced to running after food.”
Namibians deserve independence celebrations that embody dignity, respect and freedom from want, he said. This includes committing to addressing the root causes of poverty and inequality to ensure every Namibian can truly taste the fruits of independence, the PDM lawmaker noted.
Hamata, who also serves as the party’s secretary for information and publicity, lamented the attempts by the ruling party to hijack the sacred day for its own political gain, urging instead for music that reflected the spirit of inclusivity and hope.
He said independence is a moment for all Namibians to come together, regardless of political affiliations, to commemorate the birth of the nation. “Playing Ndilimani songs on this momentous day is disappointing and immature of the current government. They are betraying the spirit of inclusivity and national unity that Independence Day represents,” he said.
Govt exploitation
According to Hamata, political leaders attending these celebrations do so as proud citizens of Namibia, driven by their love for the country and its people - not as members of a particular political party.
It is thus deeply concerning to witness exploitation by the current government, squandering taxpayer money under the guise of organising Independence Day events that serve as mere political rallies, he said. “PDM staunchly opposes the Swapo-led government’s attempts to taint this important day with partisan politics. This practice must cease immediately and be consigned to history.”
He further called for the preservation of peace and unity, recognising its essentiality for the prosperity and stability of the nation for generations to come. “Witnessing leaders from different political parties come together under one roof to celebrate this momentous day is a rare and precious thing – a testament to Namibia’s commitment to unity and political maturity.”
Urging the Swapo-led government to respect the sanctity of Independence Day, he said the party ought to focus on celebrating the country's achievements and rededicate itself to building a brighter future for all.
“We should be pushing for self-sufficiency, creating employment and harnessing our natural resources.”
The root cause of poverty
Hamata said the 34-year mark is an imperative milestone for the country, adding that he envisions every citizen enjoying equal access to clean water, education and food security. “While celebrating independence with hope and optimism of prosperity for all, we cannot overlook the irony of a Namibia where people are reduced to running after food.”
Namibians deserve independence celebrations that embody dignity, respect and freedom from want, he said. This includes committing to addressing the root causes of poverty and inequality to ensure every Namibian can truly taste the fruits of independence, the PDM lawmaker noted.
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