Lahja Nashuuta
The National Unity Democratic Organisation (Nudo) has once again postponed its elective congress, this time to an unspecified date in 2026.
The announcement was made by party vice president and Aminius constituency councillor Peter Kazongomuinja during a press conference in Windhoek last week. He cited ongoing internal challenges and the party’s preparations for the Regional Councils and Local Authorities ‘elections slated for November this year, as the main reasons for the postponement.
This is the third time Nudo has delayed its electoral congress, where critical leadership positions including party president, secretary-general and national chairperson were supposed to be contested.
The congress was originally scheduled for July 2023 at the Ramatex Complex in Windhoek but was abruptly called off by the sitting leadership.
Then party president Esther Muinjangue cited chaos, anarchy and safety concerns as delegates clashed in factional disputes. The congress was then rescheduled to May 2024 and now to 2026.
Former secretary general Joseph Kauandenge, who resigned last month said, deep-rooted factionalism and interference from rival factions of the Ovaherero Traditional Authority (OTA) contributed to the chaos. In a recent interview, Kauandenge described the situation as “chaotic”, with competing power blocs undermining the party’s democratic processes.
Meanwhile, Nudo appointed deputy secretary general Joseph Uapingene as acting secretary general, following Kauandenge’s resignation.
Kauandenge on Friday launched a new political movement called the Association for Localised Interests (Asoli), but has maintained that he remains a bona fide member of Nudo.
While the party leadership has remained tight-lipped on Kauandenge’s dual political affiliations, Kazongomuinja confirmed that the national executive committee (NEC) had received and officially accepted his resignation.
“The deputy secretary general, Uapingene, will be acting secretary general until the next national council meeting and congress,” he said.
Kazongomuinja added that despite the internal challenges, Nudo will continue with its nationwide mobilisation campaign to strengthen grassroots structures and enhance its readiness for the elections.