United Congregational Church of Southern Africa (UCCSA) Speaks on Unmasking Germany’s Questionable Alliances: Namibia’s Resolute Stand for Justice
Context
The United Congregational Church of Southern Africa (UCCSA), One Church in seven countries, including Namibia, has been actively involved in social and political issues. This comes after Germany’s recent support of what it calls the “genocidal intent” of the Israeli state against civilians in Gaza. South Africa filed an application instituting proceedings against Israel before the International Court of Justice (ICJ), the principal judicial organ of the United Nations, concerning alleged violations by Israel of its obligations under the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide (the “Genocide Convention”) in relation to Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.
The rejection comes as a response to Germany’s decision to defend Israel’s actions before the International Court of Justice, despite widespread international concern and condemnation. During the apartheid era in South Africa, the church played a significant role in advocating for justice and equality. It supported the anti-apartheid movement and aided those affected by state-sanctioned discrimination. Namibia, as a country with a painful history of German colonial oppression and genocide against the Herero and Nama peoples, has taken a firm stance against Germany’s involvement. We believe that Germany’s historical transgressions cast doubt on its authenticity in adjudicating matters related to genocide. The scars of the past borne by those directly affected serve as a reminder of the atrocities committed by German colonial forces.
Germany’s Past: A Moral Abyss
It is crucial to recognize the potential damage to the historical stance of the Jewish people, who have long championed the prevention of genocides worldwide. Israel risks compromising this principled position by seemingly turning a deaf ear to the calls for alternative approaches to the Palestine-Israel stalemate. The concern is that by proceeding without heeding these calls, Israel may inadvertently become a perpetrator of genocide, tarnishing the very principles it has historically sought to uphold.
Namibia’s rejection of Germany’s involvement extends beyond a local dispute. It serves as a warning to the international community about the dangers of allowing a nation with a murky historical record to influence matters of justice. If the world succumbs to Germany’s sway, the consequences for global justice could be dire. The fear is that decisions influenced by a nation with a history of genocide might compromise the pursuit of justice, especially in Namibia’s resolute rejection of Germany’s involvement stems from a history engraved in blood – the genocidal horrors inflicted upon the Herero and Nama peoples during the German colonial era. The shadows of this gruesome past loom large, casting a damning light on Germany’s claim to any moral authority in discussions surrounding genocide. The scars of yesteryear, borne by those directly affected, are a corroboration to the atrocities committed by German colonial forces.
The Danger of Germany’s Influence on International Justice
Namibia’s rejection is not merely a local dispute; it serves as a stark warning to the international community. Allowing a nation with a murky historical record to influence matters of justice poses a grave risk. If the world succumbs to Germany’s sway, the consequences for global justice could be dire. The fear is that decisions influenced by a nation with a history of genocide might compromise the pursuit of justice, especially in contemporary cases such as the plight of the Palestinian people.
Namibia’s Call for Transparency: Exposing Germany’s True Colors
Namibia’s resolute rejection of Germany’s questionable alliances has implications far beyond the legal battleground. As victims of historical genocides, we earnestly hope that the Namibian government has discerned a crucial lesson about the German mindset, racial attitudes, and Germany’s stance on international justice. The propensity for genocide denial appears deeply ingrained in the German identity as if it were another facet of their national character. The stark reality is that for Germany, confronting and acknowledging historical atrocities seems to be an insurmountable challenge. This inherent denial is not merely an evasion of responsibility; it is, disturbingly, entwined with the very fabric of German identity, reflecting a troubling aspect of their historical narrative. Namibia’s experience should serve as a cautionary tale, urging vigilance against the insidious nature of genocide denial and challenging the very essence of Germany’s commitment to international justice.
Commendation for the Republic of South Africa
We commend the Republic of South Africa for its unwavering commitment to justice and morality in challenging powerful alliances to support the weak. Genocide, under no circumstances, should be justified, and South Africa’s stance emphasizes the importance of holding nations accountable for their actions, regardless of historical provocations or claims of self-defence.
Ethical Imperatives: Rejecting Genocide as Retribution
The principle that one wrong action does not justify another is a cornerstone of global ethics, underscoring the understanding that past provocations or claims of self-defense cannot serve as justifications for committing genocide. The atrocities of yesterday, no matter how grievous, should not pave the way for the commission of heinous crimes today. Genocide, as an egregious offense against humanity, stands as a stark reminder that the ends can never justify the means. The international community upholds the universal truth that two wrongs do not make a right, emphasizing the imperative to seek justice and accountability through ethical and lawful means, rather than succumbing to a cycle of retribution and brutality.
A Plea for Justice and Accountability
As we navigate these treacherous waters, Namibia’s resolute rejection of Germany’s questionable alliances and its unwavering commitment to justice represent a clarion call for the world to heed. This is not merely a legal battle; it is a fight against historical amnesia, manipulation, and the compromise of international justice. As we bear witness to these pivotal moments, let us rally behind Namibia’s call for accountability and ensure that justice prevails over the shadows of the past.
Congregational Voice
The UCCSA will have presentations on each last Wednesday of the month. We have branded these ‘The Congregational Voice’ because it will articulate our positions, reflections, and bible study on Topical and Justice issues facing the Contemporary Church and Society. The General Secretary Rev Kudzani Ndebele advised that the inaugural presentation on 31st January 2023 @ 7pm be done by the UCCSA President on a “Israel-Palestinian War: Theological & Justice Perspective”. Many see Zionism as fidelity to scriptures. Matthew 23:23 tells us that Justice, Mercy and Faithfulness are weighty matters of the Law. Should not such guide our perspective as the UCCSA and People of God. This is therefore meant to orient the church towards justice view on topical issues.The presentation will invite engagements and comments in respect of the presentation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, However, the Church should be careful in showering too much praise onto the Namibian government whose approach to the German genocide against the Namas and Hereros have always been characterised by such ambivalence; a clumsy, haphazard, and tentative approach. Hence, holding Germany to account for the genocide, morally, ethically and restoratively, has always primarily rested upon the shoulders of affected communities. The UCCSA will continue calling for an immediate ceasefire in Israel’s disproportionate violent retributive reaction against Palestinians and earnestly and actively pursue the path towards a two-State solution, involving the Palestinians. The UCCSA is calling out the State of Israel for war crimes and crimes against humanity being perpetrated in Gaza.
As we reflect on the principles of justice and ethical conduct, it is incumbent upon governments, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), faith communities, and individuals of goodwill to draw inspiration from the exemplary stances taken by South Africa and Namibia. The ongoing Israeli campaign of violence, resulting in the tragic loss of over twenty-three thousand Palestinian lives, demands urgent attention and condemnation. It is a call to action for the global community to advocate for an immediate end to the suffering of innocent civilians, including women, children, the elderly, and those living with disabilities. Let the voices of justice and humanity rise above geopolitical considerations, echoing the moral imperative to safeguard the sanctity of life and uphold the dignity of every individual. It is through collective efforts and unwavering commitment to the principles of peace and justice that we can strive for a world where violence and oppression are replaced by compassion, understanding, and the pursuit of a just and lasting peace.