2015-09-24Staff Report 2 Ongwediva Swapo’s regional coordinator in Oshikoto Region Armas Amukwiyu has denied allegations that the Swapo Party Youth League halted the formation of a youth parliament in Omuthiya. The youth parliament is one of the projects stipulated in the Omuthiya Youth Forum’s strategic plan, together with a talent and fashion show, business plan and training, among others. The youth forum’s initiative to form a parliament, aimed to address issues affecting the youth, was allegedly rejected by some members of the SPYL. Youth in many constituencies have been appealing for a parliament, which they want to use as a platform to discuss issues directly affecting them in their constituencies. The strategic plan was reportedly approved by SPYL regional secretary Mathew Hango. But Amukwiyu said information about the plan was never brought to his office and denies having any knowledge of what happened. However, the regional leader advised the youth to bring up the issue with their local branches and not the mother body. “People should give the correct information and not use the party’s name in vain,” said Amukwiyu. The SPYL allegedly ruled that the establishment of the youth parliament was unconstitutional and was not properly communicated hence should be halted. However, the youth forum says the matter was communicated and has emails to prove it. The youth forum also accuses the SPYL regional secretary Mathew Hangula of failing to draw up a guidance constitution after endless promises to engage the forum on the issue. SPYL has also reportedly criticised the youth forum for aligning themselves with expelled party members. Efforts to obtain comments from the secretary for information and mobilisation of the SPYL Edward Gabriel proved futile. Hangula referred queries to the youth forum’s chairperson. 2015-09-24Staff Report 2
