INTERVIEW: Boro Ndungula Demands Action After Cannabis March Rejection

Background: The Rejection of the March
Boro Ndungula, the Secretary General of the Ganja Users of Namibia, has spoken out after the police rejected their application for a cannabis legalization march. The rejection came from concerns raised by the Inspector General of Namibia’s police, who cited the participation of foreigners—specifically from South Africa and Europe—as a security risk. Ndungula, however, argues that these concerns are unfounded and undermine their constitutional rights to peaceful assembly, as protected by Article 21 of the Namibian Constitution.

A Call for Accountability: Approaching the Ombudsman
In light of the rejection, Ndungula and the Ganja Users of Namibia have decided to take the matter further. They have approached the Office of the Ombudsman to seek a formal reprimand of the Inspector General for his comments. The organization is calling for an apology for the negative and damaging generalizations made about foreign participants, which Ndungula believes pose a threat to the reputation and safety of both Namibians and foreigners.

The Broader Implications: Rights and Freedoms at Stake
Ndungula and his supporters believe the Inspector General’s statements are not only harmful but also infringe on the rights of Namibian citizens. The remarks, which label foreign participants as a potential threat to Namibian security, threaten to harm the safety of Namibians living abroad, particularly in South Africa and Europe. This situation has raised concerns about the broader implications for freedom of expression and the right to assemble freely within Namibia.

Next Steps: What Happens If No Apology is Issued?
The Ganja Users of Namibia are firm in their commitment to protecting their rights. Ndungula has made it clear that if the Inspector General fails to issue an apology within seven days, they will escalate the matter. This could include calls for the dismissal of the Minister of Home Affairs and the Inspector General, sending a powerful message about the importance of upholding constitutional rights and freedoms in Namibia.

Conclusion: The Ongoing Struggle for Cannabis Legalization and Rights
Ndungula’s actions reflect not only the ongoing fight for cannabis legalization in Namibia but also the broader issues of civil rights and freedom of assembly. His bold stance is a reminder of the importance of protecting rights against overreach and the need for accountability in positions of power.