By Kuvee Kangueehi
Windhoek
Secretary-General of the Swapo Party, Ngarikutuke Tjiriange, says speculation over the revival of the position of national chairman in the party is a “non-issue” and he does not see it happening.
Speaking to New Era yesterday, Tjiriange said no such proposal has reached his office yet. He added that he would be totally surprised if the position is revived.
Tjiriange said he is personally not keen on the idea and asked why the party should do away with the position only to bring it back.
He said people have been saying that the position should be revived to accommodate President Sam Nujoma who is stepping down but there is no truth in the speculation.
“Namibians are strange because they can speak about something as if it is the divine truth and people, most of the time, start believing it.”
Tjiriange said even if the Constitutional Review Committee brings up the matter and it goes to congress, it can be thrown out as a non-issue.
Tjiriange noted that preparations for the congress are at an advanced stage and all 13 regions except Caprivi have forwarded names of their delegates to his office.
Tjiriange said he expects the Caprivi Region to complete its regional conference this weekend after which they would forward their list of delegates.
He stressed that he is satisfied with the preparations, especially the logistics, saying finance, transport, invitations and printing of material are in place.
He, however, noted that the party has not yet decided on the venue for the congress. A number of venues such Etosha Park, Tsumeb, Windhoek and one of the coastal towns are being considered.
He said the preparation committee is weighing all the options but will consider the cost implications, transport, security and logistics before deciding on the venue.
He said the party is expected to hold a Politburo meeting, then a Central Committee meeting before the congress.
Tjiriange refused to be drawn into speculating on the outcome of the congress and said the people will decide in less than five weeks on a new look for the party.
The Swapo Party will hold its fourth Ordinary Congress from November 27 to 30.