WALVIS BAY – Former member of parliament and veteran politician Ben Amadhila has called on Swapo members to rally behind their party and its candidate to protect the party from being forced into coalition. He addressed party supporters on Saturday in Walvis Bay. Amadhila urged voters to support Swapo, warning Namibians of the consequences seen in countries like South Africa, where the governing party was compelled to form a coalition with an opposition party. 

“Namibians should give Swapo clear mandate to lead. It’s the only way to avoid being forced into alliances with the very architects of past injustices, as we’ve witnessed in South Africa. We cannot go backwards. So, let us vote for the future of our children, our elderly, and for the prosperity of this country,” he appealed. 

He urged everyone to rally behind Netumbo Nandi- Ndaitwah – come 27 November. 

He added that all registered voters must seize the opportunity to vote. Should she be elected, Nandi-Ndaitwah would become Namibia’s first female president – “a monumental achievement for our country,” Amadhila said. 

He underscored the importance of the election, calling it pivotal for preserving peace and fostering unity across Namibia. “This election is critical. It’s about continuing the peace and political stability in our country so we can keep building a future for both our young and elderly,” he said. Reflecting on Nandi-Ndaitwah’s years of dedication to Swapo and Namibia, he shared memories from the 1970s when he first met her during the liberation struggle. 

“I met her in 1975… She was a young lady, beautiful, and standing with no fear in her uniform. She was equal to any man in uniform – a true lady of steel,” he recalled. 

He emphasised that her courage and resilience on the frontlines have shaped her leadership today. 

He praised Nandi- Ndaitwah’s extensive e x p e r i e n c e i n government, particularly her time in the foreign affairs ministry, where she made a notable impact. “She did fantastic work, and is one of the few who truly knows the party inside out,” he said. He stated that Nandi-Ndaitwah’s knowledge of Namibia’s challenges makes her a strong candidate for the presidency. -edeklerk@ nepc.com.na