🇳🇦NamibiaSouthern Africa
IPC alleges Swapo exploits poverty to weaken opposition parties
via The Namibian5 min read
The Independent Patriots for Change IPC has accused Swapo of exploiting poverty and individuals' personal circumstances to undermine opposition parties. This accusation follows the decision of former IPC Erongo regional mobiliser Rudolf Kahingunga to rejoin Swapo, alongside former Swakopmund mayor Blasius !Goraseb and over 15 other individuals, many of whom were previously affiliated with the IPC. IPC Erongo regional chairperson Aloisius Kangulu stated that while citizens have the right to choose their political affiliation, Kahingunga, who held an influential leadership position, should have utilized the party's internal structures to address his concerns. Kahingunga resigned from the IPC on July 7, citing a departure from the party's founding principles and a concentration of decision-making among a few individuals. Kangulu rejected these claims, suggesting that Kahingunga's actions were influenced by "material considerations" and represented a "profound betrayal" of the party's mission. He further alleged that Swapo has historically used poverty and personal circumstances to weaken opposition parties, though he affirmed respect for every citizen's constitutional right to political association. Despite these defections, Kangulu maintained that the IPC remains united and resilient. Meanwhile, !Goraseb stated his decision to join Swapo was made after careful reflection, believing he could best contribute to addressing national challenges like unemployment, poverty, and inequa
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