Government reaffirms sovereignty over Zambezi region

The government has unequivocally reaffirmed that the Zambezi Region remains an inseparable part of the country’s sovereign territory, following renewed secession calls from the banned United Democratic Party (UDP).

Audrin Mathe, the Executive Director of the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology, issued the statement in response to the UDP’s 4 June demand that the government withdraw its presence from the Zambezi Region—formerly known as the Caprivi Strip. The UDP, led by exiled leader Mishake Muyongo, attempted to secede the region in 1999, a move that failed and resulted in the party’s ban in 2006. Muyongo has lived in exile in Denmark since 1998.

Audrin Mathe (@AudrinMathe) Photo:  X

“The government position is clear: we do not tolerate any attempts, by arms or other means, to secede the Zambezi Region from Namibia,” Mathe said. He cited the 1989 Namibian constitution, which firmly establishes the country’s territorial borders, including the Zambezi Region, Walvis Bay, and offshore islands. “There has never been any change in this position,” he added.

Mathe further warned that any effort to disrupt peace and stability in the Zambezi Region or elsewhere in Namibia would be met with the full force of the law.

Last Wednesday, the UDP staged a demonstration in Katima Mulilo, demanding the immediate withdrawal of the Namibian Defence Force from the Zambezi Region and calling for control over the former Caprivi area to be handed over to the party. UDP Secretary Ronnicah Sipiho addressed the crowd, asserting the party’s claims. The UDP also submitted a petition to Vice President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, with a copy sent to Muyongo in exile.

However, the Electoral Commission of Namibia confirmed that the UDP is not a registered political party, undermining the legitimacy of its demands.

Local political analyst Ndumba Kamwanyah weighed in on the ongoing tensions, highlighting the region’s complex history. “The Caprivi secession attempt and the subsequent treason trials continue to shape the political and security dynamics of the region,” Kamwanyah noted.

Separately, another political analyst, Sam Kauapirua, also commented on the matter.

As the government reiterates its commitment to peace and development, officials emphasize ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure, economic opportunities, and social services in the Zambezi Region.

The post Government reaffirms sovereignty over Zambezi region first appeared on Future Media News.

The post Government reaffirms sovereignty over Zambezi region appeared first on Future Media News.