WINDHOEK: Speaker of the National Assembly and Chancellor of the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST), Peter Katjavivi on Thursday honoured the Carnation Revolution, reflecting on its significance in Namibia’s fight for freedom during the liberation struggle.

Katjavivi underscored the event’s enduring impact on global movements for democracy and independence at its 50th anniversary held in Windhoek at the University of Namibia’s main campus.

‘Because the events of this Portuguese coup sparked hope throughout southern Africa and accelerated the process toward liberation by providing us with support from our then newly independent brothers and sisters, the Carnation Revolution serves as a reminder to Namibians that the fight for freedom and justice transcends all borders,’ said Katjavivi.

The Carnation Revolution, also referred to as the 25th April Revolution, was a nonviolent coup that occurred in Portugal on 25 April 1974. It resulted in an incredible show of unity throughout the country as
young military officers and civilians joined forces. This event not only freed Portugal from dictatorship but also paved the way for significant political, social, and economic reforms that would eventually lead to democracy and the independence of its African colonies.

‘The legacy of the revolution shows us a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of collective action, and those are the lessons that we drew from what transpired that served us and strengthened our resolve to continue fighting to gain our independence from the colonial occupation of South Africa,’ Katjavivi observed.

Source: Namibia Press Agency