Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Charlotte Nambadja
Published on 2024-03-22 10:00:00
Activist Michael Amushelelo is urging protestors who were assaulted by the police during a demonstration against youth unemployment on 21 March last year to come forward and join him in suing the Namibian Police. Speaking at an unemployment demonstration in Windhoek, Amushelelo called on those who experienced police brutality during the protest to be part of the lawsuit. He specifically mentioned individuals who were beaten, shot with rubber bullets, or suffered trauma as a result of running from the police to contact him for inclusion in the lawsuit.
Amushelelo criticized the government’s allocation of funds, pointing out the disparity in budget allocation between different ministries. He highlighted the need for addressing the state of unemployment and poverty in the country and called on the relevant ministries to take action. Specifically, he called on the Ministry of Gender Equality, Poverty Eradication and Social Welfare to eradicate poverty, the fisheries minister to provide fishing quotas, and the president to declare a state of emergency over unemployment.
The demonstration was held under the theme “We want money and work, not useless speeches,” and Amushelelo accused leaders of misusing government funds. He emphasized the importance of holding leaders accountable for financial misuse to prevent future incidents. Although no written petition was handed over during the demonstration, Amushelelo announced plans for another protest the following week, with the intention of having ministers present instead of executive directors or deputy ministers.
Amushelelo also encouraged unemployed individuals to submit their CVs to the Ministry of Labour, Industrial Relations and Employment Creation to urge Minister Utoni Nujoma to create job opportunities. Additionally, he and Dimbulukeni Nauyoma have filed a damages claim of N$10 million against the Namibian Police and the prosecutor general, seeking justice for their wrongful arrest and detention during last year’s protest. Despite spending almost seven months in police custody, they were found not guilty in October on all charges.
In conclusion, Amushelelo’s advocacy for justice and accountability in the face of police brutality and government negligence towards unemployment and poverty highlights the ongoing challenges faced by many in Namibia. By speaking out and taking legal action, he aims to hold authorities responsible and advocate for a more equitable and just society.
Read the original article on The Namibian
