Windhoek, Namibia, 30 Nov— A timely community dialogue in Windhoek has brought together political leaders, youth representatives, educators, and civil society members to emphasize the importance of peaceful elections and national unity. The event, themed “Promoting Inter-generational Participation and Dialogue Towards a United, Peaceful, and Prosperous Namibia,” was especially significant as it took place just after Namibia’s national elections, which were held this past week. The dialogue aimed to foster cooperation and understanding, ensuring a peaceful environment both before and after the elections.
The discussion featured insights from Mr. Lifalaza Simataa, National Spokesperson for the Landless People’s Movement; Mr. Kotokeni Shimbindja, President of the National Youth Development Organization; and Ms. Rosa Namises, Founder of Women Solidarity Namibia and an independent candidate. Each speaker stressed the importance of peaceful electoral processes, respect for diverse opinions, and effective communication in strengthening democracy.
Michael Hamutenya, the Namibia branch leader of Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL), opened the event by sharing HWPL’s peace mission. Central to this mission is the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW), a document aimed at promoting global peace by urging countries to cease conflict and build lasting security through dialogue and international cooperation. The DPCW is a key initiative in HWPL’s efforts to create a culture of peace. Hamutenya highlighted the vital role peaceful elections play in a thriving democracy, urging Namibians to accept election outcomes gracefully and resolve disputes through dialogue.
Participants discussed the key factors for maintaining peace post-election, with Mr. Shimbindja stressing that respect and understanding should extend beyond political differences. “We must view each other as family, regardless of political affiliations,” he said. Mr. Simataa underscored the need for accountability, advising that election disputes be resolved through proper legal channels. “Violence is never the solution,” he reminded attendees.
Ms. Namises linked electoral peace to social stability, noting that unmet basic needs can lead to tensions. She called for greater involvement from community and religious leaders to mediate potential conflicts, emphasizing open communication and fairness.
In a dynamic Q&A session, audience members posed questions about coalition governance and political accountability. In response to concerns about coalition challenges, Mr. Simataa acknowledged past difficulties but highlighted instances where coalition governments improved transparency. Youth advocate Antoinette Goses urged politicians to remain committed to their promises, especially those related to youth, even if they lose elections.
The dialogue ended on a unifying note, as local youth led participants in singing a peace song. This moment of shared harmony reinforced the day’s message: that peace is a collective effort, requiring open dialogue and a commitment to cooperation. With Namibia’s recent elections behind them, the call for inter-generational engagement and unity across political divides is stronger than ever.
