Hey you, Liberator – Ndapanda Andreas-Kayoko

Ndapanda Andreas-Kayoko's book Hey You, Liberator is a story born from Namibia’s independence. The author has crafted a fictional tale that resounds with the 33 years of the nation's sovereignty.

The book follows the lives of Helena and Andimba, two young Namibians from opposite sides of society. Despite their different backgrounds, a shared commitment to ethical principles and integrity unites them. Helena, an ambitious young lady, holds a degree in Public Relations from the University of Namibia and is determined to build her company, Dunamis, without relying on kickbacks or influential connections. She set up the company after – like many young Namibians – finding herself unemployed after graduation. Andimba, on the other hand, is a lawyer with political ties, but he is not inclined to leverage his proximity to power for financial gain. Instead, he dedicates his legal career to addressing social issues in society, a choice that disappoints his father, the influential "Big Man" who is positioned as the future leader of the ruling party, the Liberators.

The fictional storyline draws on many actual events in Namibia, such as the removal of the Curt von Francois statue and the Fishrot case, making it a fascinating read.

This book is thought-provoking. Although a work of fiction, the storyline borrows much from the realities, and it will foster dialogue between generations. The characters and events serve as mirrors reflecting the nuanced complexities of Namibia's past and present.

This book is thoughtprovoking. Although a work of fiction, the storyline borrows much from the realities, and it will foster dialogue between generations.

Hey You, Liberator is a compelling book. Its ending leaves the reader with a sense of incompleteness, yearning for more. This may be intentional, however, as a metaphor for the ongoing narrative of Namibia.

As Namibia approaches an election in 2024, Hey You, Liberator holds the potential to spark meaningful conversations among citizens of all ages. It is refreshing that Ndapanda Andreas-Kayoko, an experienced political analyst, uses creativity to engage readers in the politics of Namibia. Hey You, Liberator is an important read in our current times. This book can contribute to the collective introspection about the kind of Namibia its people aspire to create.

Laimi Elago