WINDHOEK – Pendukeni Ivula-Ithana has called on Swapo Party members to ensure 50/50 gender representation during party elections at all levels.

She was speaking at the official opening of the party’s district conference and elections in the //Karas Region. She emphasised that the party’s election rules and procedures call for the identification of candidates to reflect the national character of the party and the inclusion of women in order to correct the difficult socio-economic realities faced by Namibian women. “Women are more than half of the Namibian population and more than 52 percent of voters, yet women hold fewer elected positions than men in our government across the country.

The amended constitution of the party on 50/50 representation should be visible here today as we strive to fully apply this policy,” Ithana urged. She also cautioned members to be prepared for next year’s elections by ensuring their documents are in order. “Ensure that you are a paid up Swapo Party member. Running around at the last minute should be avoided by pre-planning and making time for such arrangements,” she said. She further encouraged members to remain supportive of each other, saying a political organisation that lacks internal democracy is characterised by personal rivalries, ideological divisions, intolerance and character assassination.

During the election that was held over the weekend, Maria Alivulu was elected District Coordinator replacing Silas Situla, while Abraham Christian was elected to the position of Information Mobilization Officer. This position was formerly held by Henry Coetzee. Lena Hishitomhunu who competed against Conrad Awala was elected into the position of District Treasurer.

By Jemima Beukes