Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Timo Shihepo
Published on 2024-03-07 15:43:54
Kaire Mbuende, the former campaign manager for vice president Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, has emerged as a key figure in the ongoing calls for an extraordinary congress within the Swapo party. However, he emphasizes that the push for this congress should not be seen as solely a Netumbo issue, but rather a broader Swapo issue.
As a close ally of Nandi-Ndaitwah, Mbuende is now being considered for top positions within Swapo and the government. Speculations suggest that he may be appointed as the Swapo vice president or even the country’s vice president, in a move to balance tribal representation in high-ranking positions.
Despite his potential rise, Mbuende’s path could face obstacles due to the Helmut amendments, which require candidates for the top four positions in Swapo to have been members of the central committee and the party for 20 consecutive years.
The recent passing of President Hage Geingob has further complicated Swapo’s succession plans, requiring an extraordinary congress to be held within 90 days to elect a new president to complete Geingob’s term. The party’s politburo has endorsed Nandi-Ndaitwah as the presidential candidate for the upcoming national elections, sparking discontent among some members.
Mbuende, however, denies rumors linking him to senior positions and clarifies that the position of vice president is currently occupied. He played a pivotal role in Nandi-Ndaitwah’s rise to the Swapo vice presidency at the 2022 congress, potentially paving the way for her to become the next president of the country.
The central committee, which holds the authority to call for an extraordinary congress, is set to meet to decide on the way forward. The faction led by Nandi-Ndaitwah is expected to endorse her as the Swapo candidate for the upcoming national elections and possibly postpone the extraordinary congress to 2025.
Some members of the central committee express concerns about the timing of the congress, financial implications, and the potential for internal divisions. Former Minister Jerry Ekandjo has advocated for the congress to avoid constitutional violations and legal challenges.
Political analysts weigh in on the situation, emphasizing the need to follow Swapo’s constitution and avoid personalizing issues. They highlight the challenges faced by the party in navigating the current circumstances.
In conclusion, the ongoing discussions surrounding an extraordinary congress and leadership appointments within Swapo reflect the complexities and tensions within the party. As stakeholders prepare to make crucial decisions, the focus remains on upholding party structures and unity in the face of these challenges.
Read the original article on The Namibian
