KAHENGE – The country’s opposition parties are accused of sabotaging government’s development agenda by choosing not to attend important national events.
Swapo councillor for the Kahenge Constituency in Kavango West, Joseph Sivaku Sikongo, did not mince his words in his criticism of opposition parties.
Kahenge said opposition parties “just want to criticize government while they contribute nothing to the development of the country”.
While delivering the vote of thanks during the official inauguration of the Kahenge police barracks and fuel station in western Kavango last week, Sikongo grilled opposition parties for failing to support government to improve the lives of all Namibian citizens.
“It seems only Swapo attends national events, so let me thank Swapo for attending this ceremony. I cannot thank the opposition parties because, as usual, they are not present,” complained the Kahenge councillor.
Swapo regional coordinator for both Kavango regions, Johanna Kandjimi, attended the inauguration ceremony as well.
Approached for comment after the event, Sikongo told New Era that several public announcements were made inviting the public to attend the gathering but no political party, except Swapo, attended.
“When government delivers services, it is not only for Swapo members, it is for every Namibian regardless of your political affiliation. We are currently busy with the distribution of drought relief food – we do not discriminate against those who support other parties, we take care of everyone,” said Sikongo.
He observed that both the opposition and the ruling Swapo Party have a constitutional obligation to join hands when it comes to public matters.
According to him, he has on many occasions in the past invited opposition political parties in the region to attend events taking place in his constituency but their presence was not forthcoming.
“As the opposition your job is not just to criticize, you must also deliver. Therefore, I am urging the media to continue publishing government’s achievements so that those who just want to criticize can see that government is not sitting idle,” said Sikongo.
With next year’s elections in mind, Sikongo reminded opposition parties that they too have an obligation to encourage the electorate to vote and at the same time show appreciation for government’s efforts.
“We know that development is not moving as fast as people want it to, but with the resources at our disposal, we will continue to deliver,” he vowed.
By Mathias Haufiku