Independence Day celebration should not be taken for granted – SPYL

WINDHOEK, Mar. 1 – The Swapo Party Youth League (SPYL) issued a statement earlier today in which it stressed that Independence Day celebrations should not be taken for granted.

A statement issued by SPYL Secretary for Information, Publicity and Mobilization Gerson Lineekela Dumeni​​ stated that the Youth League had taken cognizance of individuals who felt a national clean – up day should take place in lieu of Independence Day celebration which is due to take place at Tsumeb in Oshikoto region this year.

“It’s imperative to note that Namibia is a sovereign, democratic and unitary state founded upon the principles of democracy, rule of law and justice for all which we cannot compromise,” read the statement.

“Independence Day celebration serves as a yardstick which gauges the country’s progress in socio-economic development and should not be rubberstamped with a national clean – up day. Our history should neither be rewritten nor be distorted to suit those with imperialistic agenda.”

The SPYL welcomed the initiative of a national clean – up day stating that there were few towns and informal settlements in an untidy state, but that did not mean cleaning up should wait for independence day.

“…We acknowledge the government’s effort in fostering cleanness and neatness in towns and surroundings, and it remains the obligation of every Namibian to combat the culture of littering without waiting for an independence day.”
“As we will celebrate our 28 years of independence we should not forget to pay homage to our Namibian heroes and heroines who had sacrificed their lives, youthful years and education for us to enjoy freedom and peace today.” – NDN Staffer