Via the Media the Namibian public was informed about high level negotiations concerning a Chinese naval base to be established in Walvis Bay.
This news created an outrage amongst the population, expressed in social media. Following the outrage, an unofficial comment informed the people discussing this about a press release from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which refuted the article.
The so called press release could, however, not be found published in any news paper and only many hours later on the official page of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Never the less, the contemplated online petition was put on hold for the time being, pending further developments.
Next: the NBC cancels a scheduled interview claiming the ministry of foreign affairs had banned all discussions on this matter.
Two days later, instead of the press release, the concerned news paper published an article mentioning the content of the so-called press release.
Now what do we have here?
Now what do we have here?
1. A clear case of intimidation by
an attempt to sway public opinion, claiming official status;
an attempt to thwart public discussions by claiming official orders;
an attempt to discredit investigative journalism.
2. A clear case of underhand, secretive official wheeling + dealing
The quoted statement given by Namibian Ministry of Defense
spokesperson Lieutenant-Colonel Monica Sheya
confirmed the reports about discussions taking place.
In view of these facts it would be utter folly not to go forward with the planned petition.
UPDATE: It was put online : HERE
