If you are liberated, you will know that democracy provides space for all of us to articulate ourselves on issues. It provides space for us to say, “No, you cannot cross this boundary.” In a democracy there is no oppression, there is no suppression. That’s why I like democracy: you unleash your potential, be it mentally or physically. It’s not a one-man show or a one-woman show. Democracy provides freedom and liberty for us to take ownership, and we as a nation have responsibility. That is why we must always ask ourselves, “What is my responsibility towards this situation? What is my responsibility and contribution towards the development of the country?” MYD: Exactly. On a more personal note, Kazenambo, in your political career, how did you find inner peace when people were attacking you because of your views? KK: My father was a pastor and I grew up around many people. Something that I found to be a guiding principle in life is that you must always be truthful to yourself. Truth is a liberator. Don’t lie to yourself. In many cases I was attacked on the field of politics, but it is my right to question things. Honesty, truthfulness, fairness and justice are my guiding principles; they are my breakfast, they are my lunch, they are my dinner, they are my sleeping pills. I’m not engaging with the world maliciously. I engage with the world to push myself further, and I will push myself further and I will push my society further. I relate to human beings not based on their colour, not based on their religion, not based on their language, not based on friendship. I relate to human beings. I appreciate and celebrate human beings’ achievements. MYD: It’s so much about knowing what your purpose is, and this is clear in your life. Is there something that has helped you with this mindset? KK: There is a book I read called ‘It’s Not Rocket Science’, which says that there are no limits. While people are ridiculing your aims and objectives, focus on your aims and objectives. If you want to go for it, go for it. It’s not rocket science – even rocket science was invented by human beings. So always have a positive mind. It’s the world’s duty to put obstacles in your way; it’s your duty to cross those obstacles. Our duty is to make a difference in a positive way. I will just keep on contributing based on fairness, justice for all and solidarity. Those who are here to break human beings and break other beings, I am not their friend. They are not my partners in the mission. MYD: What wisdom would you want to pass on to others, Kazenambo? KK: My message is simple. We are here in our different colours, in our different sizes and in our differences. Let us relate and contribute. Our mission should be to make an improvement. Our duty should be to face the challenges together. Let’s listen with respect. Let’s have an environment where we listen and hear one another.
15
“Namibia belongs to everybody, and I’ve got a role to contribute to the improvement of this commonage.”