Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Lugeretzia Kooper
Published on 2024-03-06 20:48:55
The Ministry of Defence and Veterans Affairs of Namibia has categorically denied recent reports suggesting that Botswana and Namibia are in discussions to withdraw soldiers from the disputed Chobe River border. This denial comes in response to an article published by Botswana’s Sunday Standard on 3 March, which claimed that the two countries were working on pulling back soldiers deployed along the contentious Chobe River based on a code of conduct document.
According to the Sunday Standard, a document prepared by a team from the Kavango Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area (KAZA TFCA) secretariat recommended that security forces from both countries maintain a low profile around the Chobe River. The document cited the need for diplomatic ties to be upheld amid public pressure, particularly in light of the alleged harassment of locals and the fatal shooting of the Nchindo brothers and their cousin along the Chobe River in November 2020.
The tragic incident involving the Nchindo brothers, Tommy, Martin, and Wamunyima Nchindo, as well as their cousin Sinvula Munyeme, sparked outrage among Namibians, leading to calls for a more peaceful resolution along the disputed border. The deaths of the Nchindo brothers’ mother, Alphonsina Mubu, who passed away five days after their killings, added to the emotional toll of the situation.
In response to these reports, the spokesperson for the Namibian Defence Force (NDF), Petrus Shilumbu, refuted the claims, stating that there is no agreement in place to withdraw soldiers from the Chobe River border. Shilumbu emphasized that the deployment of NDF soldiers in the Zambezi Region remains unchanged, contradicting the allegations made in the Sunday Standard article.
Furthermore, Namibia’s Defence Minister, Frans Kapofi, also denied the deployment of NDF soldiers along the Chobe River border, prior to referring inquiries to spokesperson Shilumbu. Both officials reiterated that there have been no discussions or agreements to remove soldiers from the disputed area, reinforcing the commitment to maintaining border security.
The denial from the Ministry of Defence and Veterans Affairs underscores the importance of accurate reporting and dispelling misinformation surrounding sensitive border issues. Amidst public scrutiny and diplomatic pressures, Namibia remains steadfast in its stance on border security and the protection of its citizens along the Chobe River.
As the situation continues to evolve, it is essential to rely on credible sources for accurate information and updates on the ongoing border disputes between Botswana and Namibia. The Ministry’s swift response to refute the reports serves as a reminder of the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability in addressing security concerns along the Chobe River border.
Read the original article on The Namibian
