Namibian activist Michael Amushelelo was met with police resistance at the Namibian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC) head office when he attempted to meet the broadcaster’s Director-General, Stanley Similo. Amushelelo sought answers regarding the suspension of journalist Anna Nicodemus, who was removed from her position last week following comments about President-elect Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah's health during an interview with South Africa's Newzroom Afrika.
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| Police at NBC head office stopped Amushelelo from meeting Similo |
Police officers stationed at the premises barred Amushelelo from entering the building, prompting a confrontation that was broadcast live on Facebook. In the footage, Amushelelo can be seen questioning the officers.
"I'm Sadam Amushelelo, and what's your name?" he asked, to which one officer responded, "I'm Police."
Taking to social media afterward, Amushelelo criticized NBC, accusing the broadcaster of bias. "NBC is no longer NBC but SBN, standing for Swapo Broadcast Corporation," he wrote.
Amushelelo argued that Nicodemus's suspension was politically motivated and called on Namibians to demand its reversal. "Freedom of speech is a human right and the foundation upon which democracy is built. Any restriction of freedom of speech is a restriction upon democracy," he stated.
He further criticized Vice President Nandi-Ndaitwah, accusing her of ignoring pressing national issues such as poverty, unemployment, and malnutrition. "Instead of addressing these issues, she is busy suppressing fundamental rights. It’s shameful," Amushelelo added.
The NBC and relevant officials have yet to comment on Amushelelo’s remarks or the reasons behind the journalist's suspension. The incident has sparked widespread discussion on press freedom and the limits of political interference in Namibia.