Nujoma, Pohamba talk tough

It was an emotional and yet no-holds-barred moment when both the Founding President Sam Nujoma and his successor Hifikepunye Pohamba addressed delegates to the sixth Swapo congress this afternoon. Nujoma criticised the conduct of Swapo leaders and members in the run up to the ruling party’s congress. In his address, Nujoma said the campaign trail was characterised by a number of shortcomings. “I noticed there were some shortcomings characterised by distortion of facts, black-mailing, and accusation of each other and unfair access to party delegates and distribution of resources,” Nujoma said. “Similarly, I am deeply disturbed by the numerous reports of nullifications of conferences in the regions. Never before have we seen the party marred in court cases and with so many complaints to the extent that verification teams were appointed by the politburo to investigate the concerns raised.” The statement by Nujoma was made during a closed session with congress delegates this afternoon. Nujoma urged delegates to respect the party’s constitution and unite to move the country forward. “The verdict that will be announced in the next few days will be remembered by future generations of Swapo Party,” he said. Pohamba also lashed out at party members, questioning both set of factions under Team Harambee and Team Swapo. The former president said he was not impressed with conduct of members ahead of congress. He also took on those who criticised his decision to hand over power to the acting party president Hage Geingob in 2015.
STAFF REPORTER