EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: NEFF Activist Michael Amushelelo Calls for Protest Against Youth Unemployment

In a recent address to Future Media, General Saddam Hamshulelu, also known as the People’s General, and a prominent member of the NEFF (Namibian Economic Freedom Fighters), provided an update on the upcoming protest scheduled for March 21st. The focus of the protest is high youth unemployment, a critical issue that has gripped the nation.

The General began by highlighting the positive developments in the ongoing dialogue with the Namibian Police Force. Discussions held at the Namibian Police Headquarters resulted in agreements regarding protest routes, meeting points, and venues for the reading of various petitions. General Hamshulelu expressed satisfaction that the police now recognize the citizens’ constitutional right to peaceful assembly, emphasizing that such rights are protected under Article 21 of Chapter 3.

Drawing attention to the constitutional right to protest, General Hamshulelu voiced his disappointment over the denial of this right in the past, attributing it to a lack of understanding among certain politicians. He emphasized that the constitution does not dictate specific dates or conditions for peaceful assembly, underscoring the need to address grievances whenever they arise.

The central issue prompting the protest is the alarming rate of youth unemployment in Namibia. General Hamshulelu passionately articulated the urgent need for action, stating that the government’s allocation of resources to celebratory events while unemployment remains a pressing concern is misguided.

“With 1.2 million people unemployed, that’s not a joke. That’s a serious catastrophic situation that we have on our hands,” he declared. The General warned of potential consequences, including a rise in sophisticated crimes, if high unemployment rates are not promptly addressed. He called for a state of emergency on youth unemployment, asserting that the nation is in a perfect position to rectify the situation if acted upon decisively.

General Hamshulelu urged Namibians to join the protest on March 21st, boycotting Independence Day celebrations to draw attention to critical social issues, including unemployment. He questioned the relevance of celebrating independence when the country faces escalating poverty, crumbling infrastructure, and an inability to provide jobs and essential services for its citizens.

In his closing remarks, the General challenged Namibians to reflect on the true meaning of independence and evaluate the progress made over the 34 years since gaining freedom. He questioned whether the nation had reasons to celebrate in the face of ongoing challenges such as poverty, hunger, and unemployment.

The NEFF activist’s powerful message resonates with those who share concerns about the nation’s future. As the call for action gains momentum, it remains to be seen how the government will respond to the growing demand for solutions to the youth unemployment crisis.