Steven Klukowski

All eyes will be on Keetmanshoop tomorrow when Swapo’s //Kharas structures will elect a new regional leadership. Ten nominated candidates will compete for the positions of regional coordinator, information and mobilisation officer and treasurer. Incumbents automatically entered the race without nomination as per party rules. 

Current regional coordinator Matheus Mumbala said during an interview, if reelected, he will ensure the continuation of unity within party structures in the region.  “I will furthermore, with the support of my fellow comrades, grow //Kharas region towards prosperity and inclusivity for all, through benefits derived from our rich natural resources,” he added.

Samuehl Jacobs, who got the most votes during nominations for regional coordinator candidates, and is also the party’s youth leader in the region, was adamant that he is highly qualified for the top political position. 

“I was groomed since childhood by well known politicians and, furthermore, grew up in a house where politics was the order of the day,” he said. He reasoned it is time for the youth in the region and the country to be recognised more actively in the politics and economy.  “I know the Swapo party as well as the region’s diverse dynamics very well and I am convinced this can increase my suitability to take over the helm at our regional office,” he said.  He said his supporters realised he can revive the youth and ensure they are more involved in all developmental activities in the region, hence their decision to nominate him. Another candidate for the position, George Pieters said on social media he feels he is suitable for the job by virtue of being a servant of the community for many years, as well as for being a businessman.  He also said as a huiskind (child from the region) he should be elected as the new regional coordinator.  Meanwhile, Helena Eelu, who has been nominated by virtue of being the only woman, did not comment by the time of going to press.

Commenting on the elections, retired politician Jan Scholtz said: “a good dancer should always know when to exit the stage. Politicians in general should also consider the next candidate after serving two terms or more in the same leadership position.” 

The former //Kharas regional council chairperson added that if the youth and women have the capacity, leadership skills and political maturity, they should definitely be considered to lead their communities as a means of empowering these segments of society, politically.  Meanwhile, former //Kharas regional governor Lucia Basson urged voters to make the right choice this time around. 

“Study the party’s history first to see what the current leadership has achieved in terms of their success rate in the region before you make your cross at the ballot box,” she said.  She also said the leaders to be elected in these positions should strive to bring back those supporters who left the party and furthermore regain political control over the //Kharas region.

Margareth Basson (incumbent) and Irene Laberloth will stand for the position of regional information and mobilisation officer while Jimms Christiaans (incumbent), Simon Nambodi, Vicentius !Goraseb and Rauna Namukwambi entered the race for the regional treasurer position.