Martin Endjala
National Assembly member Leevi Katoma of Swapo Party, has yesterday moved a motion for Parliament to debate the removal of historic Cuban economic blockade imposed by the United States of America (USA). Cuba has been under the USA embargo for 60 years.
Katoma said the cessation of unwarranted economic blockade imposed by the USA against the people of Cuba is inhumane. He demanded the immediate removal of Cuba from the list of states sponsoring terrorism, the prompt repeal of economic sanctions and unconditional closure of the USA naval base at Guantanamo Bay.
“We reaffirm our unwavering support for the Cuban Revolution, which has granted the Cuban people sovereignty, dignity, education, healthcare and other significant advancements,” Katoma reiterated.
He said the enduring historical connections, robust friendships and flourishing bilateral relations between Namibia and Cuba, sacrifices and contributions made by Cuban compatriots during the prolonged struggle for national independence from colonialism and apartheid serve as a testament to that fact.
Meanwhile, Landless People’s Movement Party’s Deputy Leader, Henny Seibeb, also moved a motion for Parliament to debate and condemn all breaches of international humanitarian law, including indiscriminate attacks on civilians and all forms of violence and hostilities targeting civilians of Palestine by Israel.
He is demanding that the international community, including the United Nations Security Council, as per its mandate to uphold international peace and security, promptly facilitate an immediate ceasefire to prevent further loss of human life and escalation of the situation on the ground in Palestine. He further demanded that the UNSCA must ensure unimpeded access for humanitarian assistance to all civilians in need throughout Gaza and put an end to the forced displacement and transfer of Palestinians.
“Our support and solidarity with the Palestinian Authority in hope of a future where they can live in peace and harmony, rebuild their state, and rightfully assume their place among the community of nations,” said Seibeb.
The lawmaker also demanded the immediate cessation of violence to end hostilities and support for efforts aimed at achieving a sustainable solution to the conflict, stressing the vital importance of safeguarding civilians and civilian infrastructure as per international law.
Swapo Party MP, Patience Masua also supported a motion condemning the persistent violations of human rights and suppression of the Sahrawi peoples’ right to self-determination by the Moroccan authorities.
As a result, she called on the international community to uphold the principles of justice and decolonisation by actively supporting the Sahrawi people’s legitimate struggle for independence.
She is demanding the immediate cessation of all hostilities and the withdrawal of Moroccan military forces from the occupied territories of Western Sahara.
“We declare our continued commitment to stand in solidarity with Western Sahara until justice is achieved and the Saharawi people can exercise their inherent right to determine their future,” said the MP.
