Oshikoto: Oshikoto Governor Sacky Kathindi has denied allegations that keynote speakers for the upcoming Independence Day celebrations were selected based on political affiliations. Kathindi was speaking during a preparatory meeting for the commemoration of Namibia's Independence Day in the Oshikoto Region on Monday.
According to Namibia Press Agency, Kathindi clarified that when President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah announced that Independence Day would be celebrated simultaneously across the country, the Oshikoto regional leadership met and collectively decided to focus on the region's challenges and opportunities. He emphasized that the decision was not influenced by political considerations and that it was a collective choice. "We did not look at political colours or party affiliations. This was a collective decision. I do not think it is fair to say it is only people from a certain political party," he stated.
Kathindi further highlighted that the celebration is intended for all Namibians and is primarily focused on service delivery. "This is for all Namibians and is mainly about service delivery. We wanted to make the celebration a success by bringing together a team of national leaders, irrespective of the political parties they come from," he added.
He also explained that in making the collective decision, councillors consulted their constituency development committee members, who come from various backgrounds and are not limited to Swapo members. "Keynote speakers were chosen based on their availability. This is a national celebration and has nothing to do with politics," Kathindi affirmed.
The list of keynote speakers includes prominent figures such as former Prime Minister Nahas Angula, Deputy Minister of Education Dino Ballotti, Minister of Labour, Industrial Relations and Employment Creation, Wise Immanuel, former Finance Minister Iipumbu Shiimi, Minister of Works and Transport Veikko Nekundi, and National Council Chairperson Lukas Muha. Other speakers include former Ohangwena Governor Usko Nghaamwa, former Oshikoto Governor Penda ya Ndakolo, Minister of Mines and Energy Modestus Amutse, and Swapo parliamentarian Willem Amutenya.