RDP suggests UN to oversee elections

BOTH President Hifikepunye Pohamba and Swapo have lost control of ‘unruly elements’ in the ruling party, the Rally for Democracy and Progress claimed yesterday.

RDP spokesperson Jeremiah Nambinga proposed that the Government approach the United Nations to oversee the presidential and national elections later this month.Nambinga made the remarks based on recent incidents in which his party’s members were reportedly on the receiving end of attacks in Windhoek, Mix Camp at Brakwater, Okahao as well as in Grootfontein yesterday.’He (Pohamba) must not suffer in silence. The fact that he has failed to act means he cannot control the situation. The actions (of the unruly elements) have the potential to cause bloodshed,’ Nambinga said.Addressing a Swapo rally at Keetmanshoop last Saturday, President Pohamba urged the party’s supporters to avoid violence during their political campaigns.’Yes, we are aware some people provoke violence. But do not react to violence. Your reaction should be to report to the Namibian Police,’ Pohamba said.Nambinga said RDP cadres had had enough of being chased around.’Those actions will lead to clashes. We have been tolerant, not because we are cowards, but because we respects the laws of this country. We also know that there will be no development without peace. But for how long will we be chased around?’ Nambinga said.He said it was clear that Swapo and Pohamba had no control over some sections of the party who were intent on violence ‘but they shouldn’t be ashamed to call in the UN to supervise the elections’.’All these problems are artificially made by Swapo elements,’ he claimed.In yesterday’s incident, Nambinga said, RDP activists visited the Grootfontein single quarters but were faced by ruling party members against whom they laid charges.’RDP has had enough of Swapo’s crude, intolerant and provocative behaviour against its people for the past two years. We continue to warn the Swapo Party leadership that if the misbehaviour of their people is not contained it will one day result in clashes between the two parties – something that RDP has been trying to avoid,’ Nambinga said.See also story on page 6