Catherine Sasman
Thousands may have flocked to sports stadiums and other venues around the country to celebrate Namibia’s 17th year of independence, but it is my considered opinion that most could not give a toss about the commemorative day.
The more politically conscientious not eager to bear the inconvenience of getting stuck in long queues at the gates of the stadiums probably spent the day in front of their television sets to follow Wednesday’s proceedings.
But for the most part, people stayed at home to catch up on some sleep, or chores, or hung out with friends and family. Others, I’m certain, fraternized our multiple shebeens and other dodgy places.
Things might have been different in Swakopmund where the main proceedings took place. One would imagine that the town was decked out in bright colours to welcome President Hifikepunye Pohamba and other high-level dignitaries, as well as visiting Zambian President Levy Mwanawasa.
But Windhoek seemed to have turned into a ghost town. The streets appeared abandoned, except for isolated bundles of – mainly – children walking to and from the Independence Stadium, and some lone cars lazily cruising around town.
There was no Namibian-flag-wielding exuberance, no fireworks, no political vim and vigour.
In fact, it would appear that we have lost our Independence-oomph.
It is perhaps unrealistic to compare the excitement of our 1990 Independence Day with now, and perhaps it is to be expected that the day has lost some of its sparkle along the way. And yet, one cannot help reminiscing the past with a pang of nostalgia.
Then our towns were overflowed with jubilation and a very real sense of rejuvenation.
Now it seems the day has lost its political purpose. Question is: why and when have Namibians become so disinterested in public life? Or are we celebrating our independence in chunks of interest groups in our own little corners?
Do white people, for example, celebrate the day differently from black people? I counted a mere seven white faces [two clearly curious foreign tourists; two from the diplomatic corps; one coach of the youth soccer team appearing that day; and two Namibian journalists] from a crowd of thousands at Independence Stadium.
Do different political organisations celebrate the day differently? The independence celebrations events have, after all, never lost its predominantly Swapo Party quality.
Have political leaders lost their ability to sway, interest and inspire the population? Do we feel there is not enough reason to celebrate, or do we have a national conscience? Or have we become too complacent?
Whatever it is, what becomes clear is that Namibians rarely embrace national days in all our diversity. Perhaps it is time that we should.
Eewa!