Leader of the official opposition, McHenry Venaani recently tabled a motion in parliament to have the Buitepos Border Post renamed to Ludwig Kanduketu Stanley Border Post.
Venaani, while motivating the motion, said the renaming is not merely ceremonial but monumental in the tapestry of Namibia’s history as Stanley played a crucial role in the early 1960s when he aided the escape of former President Dr Sam Nujoma.
“This vital role did not go unnoticed. Stanley was specifically commissioned by Paramount Chief Hosea Kutako to aid fellow Namibians on their dangerous journey into exile. Recognising Stanley’s essential qualities, Chief Kutako entrusted him with the monumental responsibility of aiding those attempting to break free from colonial oppression”.
Consequently, Stanley’s fearless and decisive actions become a cornerstone deserving unequivocal acknowledgement, he said.
The renaming of the border post would elevate the significance of the border from a colonial indication to a memorial of a revolutionary father and make Stanley’s enduring contribution to the country’s liberation and nation-building an integral part of the country’s national geography.
Venaani said the symbolism is profound as Stanley’s life was interwoven with both Namibian and Botswana, the two nations linked by the Buitepos Border Post. His journey from birth in Windhoek to his tragic end in Botswana epitomises the cross-border unity crucial for nation liberation and progress, he stressed.
Venaani furthermore indicated that the renaming will complete their journey toward complete sovereignty, saying that place names are not just labels but signposts in the collective psyche, influencing self-perception and international image.
“Renaming the border is a corrective and prescriptive act, aligning our historical experience with our future trajectory. We are not merely changing a sign we are affirming a new social contract that honours our past while shaping our future.
This is not a mere cosmetic change, it is a strategic redirection that impacts our collective identity and destiny, I urge all honourable members to support this important motion, he stressed.
Source: The Namibia Press Agency