from ALFRED SHILONGO in Windhoek, Namibia
Namibia Bureau
WINDHOEK, (CAJ News) – NAMIBIA has expressed solidarity with Venezuela, the South American nation grappling with ongoing political unrest and strained relations with the United States.
Namibian President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah conveyed her country’s support during a courtesy visit by Venezuela’s Ambassador to Namibia, Magaly Henriquez, on Wednesday.
President Nandi-Ndaitwah acknowledged the political and humanitarian crisis unfolding in Venezuela and shared her hope for a peaceful and lasting resolution.
Venezuela has been in turmoil following disputed 2024 elections, widely criticised as fraudulent. Unofficial results indicated victory for opposition candidate Edmundo González Urrutia, who later fled into exile. Despite international condemnation, President Nicolás Maduro began a controversial third term in January 2025.
“On behalf of the Namibian people, President Nandi-Ndaitwah reaffirmed Namibia’s solidarity with the people of Venezuela, underscoring Namibia’s identity as a peace-loving nation,” her office said in a statement.
“She further expressed hope for the de-escalation of tensions in Venezuela — not only for the benefit of the Venezuelan people but also for regional stability and global peace — especially at a time when the world urgently needs multilateralism and unity.”
Venezuela’s crisis has been marked by hyperinflation, food and medicine shortages, rising crime, and a deteriorating health system. Millions have fled the country, creating one of the world’s largest refugee situations.
The crisis is further compounded by increasing tensions with the United States, which has recently conducted limited military operations against vessels it claims are involved in Venezuelan-linked drug trafficking.
Ambassador Henriquez called for international understanding and expressed optimism that a permanent, peaceful solution to the conflict can be achieved.
— CAJ News