Oshakati — The lives of 23 victims of the February 19, 1988 bombing of Barclays Bank now known as First National Bank of Namibia, were honoured yesterday.

The bomb blast was commemorated yesterday morning to pay tribute to the 23 victims. Among those who spoke on the occasion were Oshana Regional Governer Clemens Kashuupulwa, Bishop Josephat Shanghala who also lost his wife in that bomb blast, Oshakati Mayor Onesmus Shilunga one of the people who rescued victims, and Sacky Shanghala, son of Bishop Shanghala.

During the event, Kashuupulwa urged Namibians to continue their unity under the umbrella of national reconciliation, in honour of those who died in the name of independence.

"Truly their blood waters our freedom and we shall remember them for their contributions to the independence of Namibia," said Kashuupulwa.

Shanghala (junior) one of the children orphaned by the bomb blast, in which he lost his mother applauded the Swapo Party Politburo for taking a stand against the Children of the Liberation Struggle.

"People that were in exile should not just think that all events that lead to independence took place in exile. Most events took place here. The 'laws' that say affected people were in exile, should be amended. That is why I applaud Swapo Politburo for telling the so-called struggle children to go home, work hard and to build the country.

"We are all struggle kids, preference should not be given to a certain group. We need to work and make sure that we deliver and deliver Namibia to greater heights," said Shanghala. Colonial South African security forces are believed to have planted the deadly bomb.