Sostenus Wilherm
Namibian activist Michael Amushelelo has launched a petition calling on the government to declare United States Ambassador John Giordano persona non grata, citing concerns over Namibia’s sovereignty and what he describes as growing foreign influence over the country’s natural resources.
The campaign comes as Namibia attracts increasing international attention following major oil discoveries, with the country emerging as one of Africa’s most closely watched frontier oil markets.
Amushelelo argues that Namibia’s oil, uranium and other mineral resources belong to Namibians and should not be subject to foreign control or political influence.
“Our oil is not American oil. Our uranium is not American uranium. Our minerals are not American minerals. They belong to the people of Namibia. As patriotic citizens, we cannot allow our rich deposits to be extracted and controlled under outside influence,” Amushelelo said.
The petition calls for Ambassador Giordano to be declared persona non grata, a diplomatic designation through which a host country declares that a foreign diplomat is no longer acceptable.
Amushelelo has framed the campaign around the protection of Namibia’s sovereignty and economic independence, arguing that the country’s natural wealth must remain under the control of its people.
“Namibia is a sovereign nation. Our land. Our oil. Our resources. Our future,” he said in announcing the campaign.
He further accused foreign interests of pursuing what he described as “economic colonialism dressed up as friendship”.
“We refuse economic colonialism dressed up as friendship. Namibia is not for sale,” Amushelelo said.
Amushelelo has urged Namibians to sign and share the petition and mobilise others behind the campaign.
The activist’s call comes amid increasing public debate about how Namibia should manage its natural resources as major international companies and governments show growing interest in the country’s emerging oil and gas sector.
Namibia has also long been a significant producer of uranium and possesses a range of other valuable mineral resources.
Amushelelo said Namibians must remain vigilant to ensure that the country’s resources benefit its citizens and contribute to the country’s long-term development.
The petition is expected to add to the national debate surrounding foreign investment, sovereignty and ownership of Namibia’s natural resources as the country prepares for a potentially significant expansion of its petroleum industry.
