Windhoek: Longest-serving Secretary General of the Namibian Football Association, Barry Rukoro, has refuted allegations of tribalism amid public concern over his views on pressing national issues. He acknowledged a shift under the current administration, commending President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah for what he described as genuine efforts to promote national unity. Rukoro expressed admiration for her leadership, contrasting it with previous administrations which he believes exacerbated ethnic divisions.According to Namibia Press Agency, in a recent interview with Nampa, Rukoro addressed various issues, arguing that silence only enables tribalism to persist. He described the matter as complex and often overlooked rather than adequately addressed. "You are telling me that I must keep quiet so that the real tribalists can flourish. I think, yes, there has to be a discussion. It's a tumble. Honestly, tribalism is a tumble. But then there is a way that we seem to be feigning it," Rukoro remarked.He continued: " I'm the furthest thing from being a tribalist. I went to Roman Catholic schools. I never went to Herero schools. I played football for multi-tribal football clubs. My club, Desert Rollers, is a multi-tribal club."Rukoro said his observations regarding ethnic concentration on certain boards are often dismissed as "tribalism" in an attempt to silence what he regards as legitimate criticism of unfair appointment practices. "The fact that I'm an observant person and I'm not afraid to say what I want to say. When you say something, they will be the first to call you a tribalist so that you are afraid to address a particular issue. They will tell you that what you are doing now is tribalist," he argued.He further emphasised that addressing past injustices and changing appointment practices would require more than one term in office, proposing a second term for the President to consolidate such reforms and prevent a return to tribalism. Rukoro also stated that prioritising merit over ethnicity is essential to pr omoting inclusivity in Namibia.His views span issues relating to sport, politics, and genocide. Despite allegations of tribalism, Rukoro maintained that he remains committed to justice, accountability, and governance reform.