Ka Ubuntu movement chair demands Réunion Island's freedom from France at Baku conference

The Ka Ubuntu independence movement is fighting for the liberation of Réunion Island from France's colonial oppression.

The movement's chairman, Romane Katambara, voiced the remarks at the international conference "Independence of Réunion: A Look at France's Colonial Heritage and the Path to Sovereignty" in Baku on January 21, Caliber.Az informs, referencing local media.

According to him, the organization has also been supporting the struggle for independence of other African colonies for the past five years.

"For us, the most important goal is to achieve true independence and effectively fight imperialism. We must awaken the political and historical consciousness of our people. Every nation must determine its own fate," he stated.

Katambara emphasized that many African countries are still technically independent, though in practice, they are not.

"In an independent country, there cannot be foreign military bases, and the government should not be under external control. We have much work to do on the path to Réunion's freedom. We must make our voice heard by the international community," the activist noted.

He also expressed gratitude to the Baku Initiative Group, which organized the conference, for providing the opportunity to openly discuss France's colonial policy.

"In the context of our struggle against France's colonial oppression, being here in Baku is very important for us," he added.

Réunion Island was discovered by Portuguese explorers in the early 1500s. The island was taken over by the French in 1642 during the reign of Louis XIV and was named Bourbon Island. Three years later, the first permanent colony was established.

The colonial legacy on Réunion Island continues to have a persistent impact on economic, political, and social spheres. France's dominant position and strong influence mechanisms on the island create significant obstacles to the local population's efforts to achieve political and economic independence. 

The ongoing event in Baku will serve as a platform to call for international support for the Réunion people's independent determination of their future.

By Khagan Isayev