Stefanus Nashama
The former chief of the Namibian Defence Force (NDF), retired General Martin Shalli, has defended his active participation in politics because it does not violate any laws.
“There is absolutely nothing wrong with me participating in politics,” he said in an interview with the Windhoek Observer on Tuesday.
The public often view former high-ranking soldiers such as generals as influential because of their military background.
Many believe that the generals hold significant knowledge of the country’s inner workings, which could have unpredicted consequences if injected into the political sphere.
“I went into exile to fight for this country under the banner of the Swapo party before I joined the military. I invested a lot in Swapo just like anyone else who went into exile,” Shalli. said.
In recent weeks, various Swapo rallies and gatherings have featured retired generals, including Shalli, the spouse of Vice President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, Epaphras Ndaitwah, and Charles Namoloh.
Former military personnel worldwide have taken on political roles and, in some instances, become presidents and ministers.
Denis Sassou Nguesso, a former military officer, became president of the Republic of the Congo in 1997, and South Africa’s Jacob Zuma, who was part of the ANC military wing uMkhonto we Sizwe in 1962, also served as that country’s president from 1999 to 2008.
Former United States presidents Ronald Reagan, George Washington, Ulysses S. Grant, and Theodore Roosevelt all served in their country’s armies.
Shali challenged those who questioned his participation in politics to identify which law he had violated.
“Have I ever violated any law after my retirement?” he asked.
Shalli also wondered if the same questions would asked of him if he happened to become a businessman.
“Now you want me to stay at home doing nothing. Is it only that I was not allowed to participate in politics when I was in the military?” he asked.
The head of public relations at the Namibian Defence Force, Colonel Petrus Shilumbu, confirmed Shali’s argument that restrictions only apply to senior military officers when they are in active service.
“Once you retire, you are free to participate in politics,” he said.
Shilumbu added that Shalli and Namoloh were involved in politics before they became members of the NDF.
“It is not surprising that they opted to join politics after retiring from active military service,” he added.
Retired General Namoloh could not be reached for comment.
