Former President Hifikepunye Pohamba says he is disturbed by the demonstrations and demands by former SWATF/KOEVOET soldiers of recognition as war veterans and benefits. Speaking at a belated Independence celebration in the Ohangwena Region, he accused the former soldiers of delaying freedom and independence, by fighting with the enemy against their own liberation. Pohamba said now that Namibia is free, it is impossible for the SWATF/KOEVOET to make uncalled-for demands from the Government. He advised former fighters to ask compensation from their colonial master employers but not from the Government. Pohamba described the actions and demonstrations to make unnecessary requests as attempts to abuse the prevailing national reconciliation and peace, which should be condemned. The former head of state said it is unfair for the war veterans to share gratuities with those who fought against the liberation otherwise their efforts would have been a waste of time.