Information and communication technology deputy minister Modestus Amutse says the Swapo central committee meeting held on Saturday is in line with the public gathering directive that was recently announced.
His response follows concerns raised about Swapo going against government directives Modestus recently told The Namibian Saturday’s meeting was an indoor meeting and does not contravene paragraph four of the public announcement regarding the mourning protocol of late founding president Sam Nujoma, issued on 11 February.
“While I am not the spokesperson of the party, I can assure the nation from my knowledge that such a meeting will satisfy the requirements of adhering to the decorum that is consistent with the mourning period,” he said. Amutse urged the public to unite to mourn the death of Nujoma within a decorum of the highest order.
Following a central committee resolution on 13 December 2024, an extraordinary congress will be held from 28 February to 2 March to elect a new party president, filling the vacancy left by late former president Hage Geingob.
During the meeting on Saturday, party vice president and president- elect Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah paid tribute to founding president Sam Nujoma, who died in Windhoek on 8 February.
The Namibian understands that the party will host a candlelight night vigil in memory of Nujoma next month.
The dates are yet to be confirmed.
“Today, Namibia stands tall among other nations of the world as a beacon of democracy, peace and stability.
Our mighty Swapo Party is recognised in the world as a strong revolutionary party, thanks to our national hero and leader of our revolution, president Nujoma.”
She said without Nujoma’s advice, visionary leadership, and unwavering commitment to unity, solidarity and justice, Namibia would not be where it is today.
She described Nujoma as a mentor to many and said Nujoma leaves behind a legacy of bravery and love for his country and its people.
“As we mourn his departure, we must embrace a common purpose to steer our country towards genuine economic independence and inclusive socio-economic development to bring about a shared and balanced prosperity,” she said.
Nandi-Ndaitwah said the party is at a crossroad now, saying the situation has placed a daunting task on them.
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