Residents of Havana protest the government’s decision to limit access to the Independence Day celebrations and presidential inauguration at State House, citing disappointment over exclusion from the event. Tensions arose when some individuals were turned away due to capacity issues.
Residents of Havana informal settlement have expressed their discontent with the government’s decision to relocate the Independence Day celebrations and the inauguration of Namibia’s fifth president to State House. The Ministry of Information and Communication Technology announced that due to anticipated heavy rains, attendance would be restricted to a select few.
The ministry stated, “Due to limited space and the high number of international guests, the public will not be able to attend the 35th Independence celebrations and the inauguration of Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah as Namibia’s fifth president as expected.”
Community member Karin Matheus, aged 45, voiced her disappointment, stating, “We wanted to see our president inaugurated.” Elise Paulus, another resident at 34 years old, echoed her sentiments, expressing, “We are unhappy. We voted for her, we wanted to see her inaugurated.”
Furthermore, tensions escalated at State House as a scuffle occurred when some individuals were denied entry because of the limited accommodation available at the venue.
The relocation of Namibia’s Independence Day celebrations and presidential inauguration has sparked frustration among community members, particularly those from Havana settlement. The decision, attributed to forecasted inclement weather and space restrictions, has left many citizens feeling excluded from a pivotal national event. Such sentiments illustrate the importance of public participation in democratic ceremonies.
Original Source: www.namibian.com.na
