Windhoek: Chairperson of the Namibian National Solidarity Campaign for Cuba, Helmut Angula, has defended the ongoing national relief effort, dismissing claims that the initiative is a mere political tactic.

According to Namibia Press Agency, addressing skepticism surrounding the drive during the Cuba solidarity gala dinner in Windhoek on Wednesday, the veteran liberation icon challenged critics attempting to frame a grave humanitarian emergency as local partisan posturing. "Why are you calling this a political party campaign? Why are you questioning the resolution of the overwhelming majority of the United Nations General Assembly?" Angula asked, reminding the nation that standing with Cuba is a moral imperative based on universal human rights, historical gratitude, and international law.

The gala dinner was aimed at supporting Cuba amid its worsening socio-economic and energy crisis due to U.S. sanctions. Part of a nationwide initiative, the campaign has raised about N$1.7 million since April, but still needs N$1.3 million for solar energy kits. "I call upon you to join the peoples of the world and donate the little you have to the humanitarian mission to alleviate the plight of the Cuban people," he remarked, adding that the fundraising campaign sought non-partisan humanitarian aid for Cubans facing an economic crisis due to the U.S. blockade.

Angula emphasised Cuba's steadfast support for Namibia, highlighting their historical solidarity during Namibia's struggle for independence, urging citizens to contribute to the fundraising campaign. Cuban Ambassador Sergio Vigoa de la Uz noted that the campaign's initiation by Namibians reflects their direct experiences with Cuban generosity during their liberation efforts.

"Tonight, they return that love in gratitude for the selfless contributions of Cubans when this beloved nation needed international solidarity. Your work is a living testament to a bond that time cannot erode," he remarked. He said Cuba is experiencing a severe economic and social crisis due to a long-standing U.S. embargo, worsened by recent executive orders that deprive essential resources, constituting a grave injustice supported by foreign regimes.