Renthia Kaimbi
Swapo has described the arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro as an unlawful abduction and a violation of international law.
Swapo condemned the United States for what it called unjustifiable aggression against a sovereign state.
Swapo secretary general Sophia Shaningwa delivered the party’s position yesterday, saying the detention of a sitting head of state breaches international norms and the principles of the United Nations Charter.
“As a political organisation born out of the crucibles of anti-colonialism and apartheid, we reaffirm our commitment to the principles of sovereignty, self-determination, and mutual respect among nations,” the statement said.
Shaningwa said every country has the right to determine its own future without outside interference.
She warned that unilateral actions by powerful states undermine global order.
“The Swapo party strongly condemns the unilateral action undertaken by the United States, which we view as contrary to established norms of international law and the Charter of the United Nations,” Shaningwa said.
Swapo said the military operation and detention of Maduro threaten diplomatic relations and international stability. It called for the immediate and unconditional release of President Maduro and his wife.
Swapo urged the international community, especially African states and other peace-loving nations, to stand with Venezuela. It called for disputes to be resolved through dialogue and multilateral processes.
The United States has defended the action by pointing to drug trafficking and terrorism allegations against Maduro, which he and his government deny.
The arrest has drawn strong reactions across the world and divided international opinion. Namibia, which has long-standing relations with Venezuela, is among the countries that view the action as a breach of sovereignty.
On Saturday, the Swapo Party Youth League (SPYL) also condemned the US action.
SPYL secretary Ephraim Nekongo said the youth wing rejects actions that undermine international law and national sovereignty.
The youth league linked its stance to shared histories of resistance, pointing to common struggles in Africa and Latin America against colonialism and imperialism.
Swapo said Namibia stands with those who see the arrest not as law enforcement but as a violation of Venezuela’s sovereignty.
