Swapo’s February congress aims to endorse Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah and prevent potential challengers from the current ministers. Critics express concerns that this could lead to increased divisions and undermine democratic processes within the party. The necessity for transparent elections for all senior positions has been emphasized by political analysts and former party members, indicating a potential breach of Swapo’s constitutional norms.
Swapo’s upcoming extraordinary congress scheduled for February 28 aims to ensure that current ministers, who may not return to parliament, do not challenge party president-elect Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah. A retreat in December set the agenda, proposing to endorse Nandi-Ndaitwah while leaving the vice president position unfilled for now. An insider indicated that the party might hold another congress to elect a vice president, but this has been met with dissent. Some officials believe that early endorsement compromises the democratic processes within the party, leading to increased divisions among its members.
Swapo deputy secretary general, Uahekua Herunga, has refuted claims that the congress’s timing was incorrect, emphasizing it is strategically positioned before the founding date of Swapo on April 19. Critics, including former party thinkers, argue that the approach is detrimental, risking more schisms within Swapo as it has previously led to a loss of parliamentary seats. Political analyst Henning Melber contends that all senior roles should be subject to election, arguing against holding both the presidency and vice presidency concurrently.
Melber warns that Swapo’s current tactics undermine its credibility among members, advocating for inclusive and transparent electoral practices. Former minister Jerry Ekandjo’s recent correspondence with secretary general Sophia Shaningwa highlights concerns regarding the constitutionality of Nandi-Ndaitwah’s presumed endorsement, stating that such positions should be contested rather than merely endorsed. Ekandjo underscores that having only one person in both major roles would generate governance vulnerabilities for the party.
The article discusses the strategic political maneuvers within the South West Africa People’s Organization (Swapo) regarding its upcoming extraordinary congress. Scheduled for late February, the congress aims to endorse the presidency of Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah amid internal party dynamics and potential challenges posed by current ministers. The implications of these decisions are examined, particularly their potential to sow division and impact the party’s effectiveness leading into the upcoming elections.
The decisions being made ahead of Swapo’s extraordinary congress raise significant concerns about the party’s direction and governance. Critics argue that the endorsement of Nandi-Ndaitwah without contest undermines democratic principles and contributes to factionalism. Ensuring all positions are open for contestation, as highlighted by insiders and analysts alike, is crucial for Swapo to maintain legitimacy and cohesion within its ranks as it approaches critical future elections.
Original Source: www.namibian.com.na
