Swanu celebrates 56 years

THE Swanu president on Saturday called on party supporters not to despair or lose hope because of the little support the party gets.

Speaking at the 56th birthday celebration, Usutuaije Maamberua urged the people at Epukiro to not lose hope and to keep fighting for what is right.

“It doesn’t matter that we are few, we are standing for the truth and we will not rest until this truth is realised,” said Maamberua.

He also said it is important for people to be educated and in this way, the gap between the rich and the poor can be bridged.

“We have come from far together, through thick and thin. We have had our troubles and our achievements. We have contributed massively to the country’s independence and we have made our presence felt in parliament as we take part in most of the debates there. We have to be happy,” said Maamberua, adding that this was a celebration not a rally.

He further touched on the genocide reparations question, saying the reparations should also tackle the need for people to have land to call their own.

“We continued to cry for land but still it has not gone back to the people and so this will continue to be our battle cry. We are saying the German and the Namibian governments as well as other stakeholders, should come to an agreement soon as we will not be deterred to use all means to get it back,” said Maamberua.

Member of the party, Teckla Hengua, encouraged women to unite within the party and to do their best to take the party forward.

“There is no house built without a woman. It doesn’t matter how many we are, what matters is that we have the truth. Let us be proud because we have worked hard and we managed to get more votes last year and for that we thank God,” she said.

The party was founded on 27 September 1959, in the old location and last year it celebrated its 55th birthday at Okakarara in the Otjozondjupa region.

The party has been fighting for land and wealth distribution in the country.