Allexer Namundjembo
Consultations on a petition by former members of the South West Africa Territorial Force (SWAFT) kicked off on Wednesday as they seek recognition and compensation under the law.
The petition, signed by 71 individuals, is before parliament’s standing committee on constitutional, legal affairs and petitions.
It was tabled in the National Assembly on 5 March.
The petitioners want to be recognised as liberation veterans under the Veterans Act, 2008.
They argue their exclusion is unconstitutional and denies them access to benefits and support.
Committee chairperson Pohamba Shifeta said the issue raises serious concerns.
“This petition raises concerns regarding their exclusion from recognition and compensation under the Veterans Act, 2008,” he said.
He assured the committee that they would hear all views.
“We acknowledge the importance of this engagement as part of our constitutional mandate to consider petitions and ensure that the voices of all citizens are heard,” he said.
The group also raised concerns about compensation funds. They claim they have not received benefits linked to N$36 million and questioned a reported N$100 million demobilisation fund.
“We demand urgent clarity and accountability regarding the N$36 million compensation funds.”
They added that despite 35 years, they “have not received any fair share of that compensation”.
They also said “no one received such a benefit” from the N$100 million fund and called for distribution with interest.
Shifeta said the committee will assess the petition based on the law.
“These are serious matters that touch on questions of equality, justice and historical redress,” he said.
He said the definition of a veteran in the act will guide the process.
“This definition will guide the committee as we assess the merits of the petition and the issues raised,” he said, adding that “this committee is committed to a fair, objective and transparent process.”
The petitioners say their exclusion remains an issue of national reconciliation and equal treatment.
They argue it conflicts with constitutional rights and international commitments.
They said their appeal is not divisive but aimed at fairness, made “in the spirit of peace, unity and reconciliation”.
Former SWATF members have also raised similar concerns for years. They have called for pensions, benefits and recognition under the veterans’ framework.
The committee is expected to continue consultations before making recommendations to parliament.
