THE National Unity Democratic Organisation (Nudo) may be ideologically poles apart from Swapo.
But last week’s selection of Nudo office-bearers at its congress near Aminuis bore parallels to the ruling party Central Committee elections two years ago. Just like his Swapo counterpart, Nudo President Kuaima Riruako reserved the party’s three top positions for candidates of his own choice – only for the congress to rubber-stamp his wish.This left some observers describing Riruako’s move as reminiscent of the one by President Sam Nujoma, during the Swapo congress in August 2002, when he manoeuvred Hifikepunye Pohamba, Ngarikutuke Tjiriange and John Pandeni into the positions of Vice President, Secretary General and Deputy Secretary General respectively.One observer, speaking anonymously, asked: “Is this becoming a new trend whereby party presidents put themselves above the congress which is supposed to be the highest decision-making organ of any political party?If this situation continues … what does it mean for democracy within our political parties?”But, in an interview with The Namibian, Riruako strongly defended his tactics and said that he had consulted all party function
Continue Reading on The Namibian
This preview shows approximately 15% of the article. Read the full story on the publisher's website to support quality journalism.