By Elezo Libanda
Katima Mulilo, 10 August – Amidst the suspension of primaries due to detected irregularities, numerous SWAPO party members are engaging in vigorous campaigning for the upcoming 2024 elections. Emerging factions are strategically aligning themselves for positions within the ruling party. The former liberation movement has faced setbacks in various regions due to allegations of corruption and embezzlement by senior party figures.
With the 2024 national elections on the horizon, senior party members have initiated nocturnal door-to-door campaigns, making promises of cars and distributing smartphones to garner essential support. Observations by NDN have indicated that the rural areas are most affected, where politicians have reportedly exploited their influence over local figures, such as headmen and village development committee members. These individuals, often struggling with poverty, have been enticed by gifts and promises, leading to frequent late-night engagements with politicians.
A senior headman based in the Liselo area shared, “Politicians are frequently visiting us, even at night, making promises of heaven on earth. We often have to defer them to the following day due to their nightly marathon meetings becoming routine. While some present recycled strategies, others offer potential solutions. We must carefully consider who to support as they all come under the same party banner.” When asked about receiving gifts or monetary incentives, the headman humorously replied that it is expected, especially considering the challenges they face.
During past elections, independent candidates made significant gains in constituencies such as Kongola, Linyanti, Judea Lyabboloma, and Sibbinda. The Independent Patriots for Change (IPC) secured dominance in the Sibbinda constituency, capitalizing on infighting and alleged corruption within the ruling party that hindered effective service delivery. Some accused SWAPO of nominating candidates with a history of underperformance.
As the upcoming national elections approach, political leaders are reaching out to voters, seeking a fresh mandate for another term. Ultimately, the decision rests in the hands of the electorate.
Despite SWAPO’s historical stronghold in the Zambezi Region, its support has waned in recent years. Previous elections saw SWAPO lose control of over 30 towns and village councils nationwide, including key economic centres like Windhoek, Oranjemund, Luderitz, Swakopmund, and Walvis Bay.
Efforts to obtain comments from Moffat Sileze, SWAPO’s regional coordinator in the Zambezi Region, were unsuccessful, as his mobile phone remained unanswered. -Namibia Daily News
