Broke Nudo retrenches staff, reprimands Kandorozu

The National Unity Democratic Organisation (Nudo) has retrenched all employees at its headquarters after suffering financial setbacks following the loss of two parliamentary seats in the 2024 general election.

Political parties in Namibia receive about N$1.1 million per parliamentary seat annually.

This means Nudo stands to lose roughly N$5.5 million over the current parliamentary term after securing only one seat in the last National Assembly election. The party is currently represented in parliament by Vetaruhe Kandorozu.

The developments were confirmed by the party’s national executive committee (NEC) after its 12th meeting held in Windhoek on 7 March.

Kandorozu reprimanded, new leader

The opposition party's NEC also addressed a parliamentary incident involving Kandorozu last week.

Kandorozu was formally reprimanded over remarks made during a parliamentary exchange with deputy minister of sport, youth and national service Dino Ballotti, whom he described as non-Namibian because he is white.

The party directed Kandorozu to issue a public apology and distanced itself from the language used during the debate, reaffirming its commitment to respectful political discourse in parliament.

The opposition party, furthermore, confirmed a leadership transition following the resignation of Utjiua Muinjangue as Nudo president.

In a statement issued by acting secretary general Joseph Uapingene, the party said Peter Kazongominja, who served as vice president, automatically assumed the presidency with full authority and responsibility in line with the party’s constitution. Muinjangue stepped down with effect from 7 March.

Party restructures amid funding cuts

The NEC said the party is facing serious money troubles after losing parliamentary representation, which significantly reduced its public funding.

Between 2019 and 2024, Nudo held two seats in the National Assembly, occupied by Muinjangue and former secretary general Josef Kauandenge.

Following recommendations from a retrenchment committee and consultations with the labour commissioner, the NEC approved the retrenchment of all party employees as part of a restructuring process.

The party said severance packages will be processed in accordance with the Labour Act, with the secretary general and treasurer general tasked with overseeing payment arrangements.

In an effort to stabilise internal structures, the NEC resolved to launch a nationwide outreach programme aimed at restoring unity within the party and rebuilding trust between its leadership and grassroots structures.

The initiative will focus on strengthening communication with communities and demonstrating that the party remains stable and committed to serving the Namibian public.

Congress preparations

The party will convene a national council meeting in July to begin preparations for its next congress.

Key issues expected to be discussed include the congress date, agenda, establishment of a congress organising committee, possible constitutional amendments and strategies to mobilise financial resources.

The NEC urged party members and supporters to remain united as the party works to rebuild its structures ahead of the next congress.