Exile children apply for Swapo affiliation

The Namibia Exile Kids Association (Neka) has submitted an application to be recognised as an affiliate of Swapo.

Neka comprises individuals born in exile during Namibia’s struggle for independence, and those who had to go into exile at a young age.

The association’s application comes after Swapo in recent years affiliated itself with the Former Plan Combatants Association (FPCA), a group of veterans from the People’s Liberation Army of Namibia (Plan), Swapo’s former military wing.

Neka’s outgoing secretary general, Mao Angula, says the application was submitted last year.

“We cannot entertain questions about this yet until we receive confirmation from Swapo,” he said on Monday.

“Neka members are children of Swapo. They were born and raised in the struggle, so Neka felt affiliation with the party would be appropriate,” Angula said.

If approved, Neka would in future be able to send delegates to Swapo’s congress and electoral college, where Swapo elects National Assembly candidates.

Neka’s annual general meeting is scheduled for this coming weekend at Otjiwarongo.

The association’s incumbent president, Rauna Amutati, is challenged by NamWater spokesperson Kadiva Hamutumwa.

Candidates for the vice president position include Heinrich Shikoyeni, Ndilimani lead singer Castro Masamba, Angula himself, and Sackey Nendongo.

Namasiku Lizazi and Elizabeth Nghitende Shimwafeni will vie for the secretary general position.

Additional member positions have drawn contenders Julia Hausiku, Frans Otto, Tuhafeni Nhinda, Justine Ndemulungila, Bevis Matengu, Marry Masangu, Freddy Siseho, and Kaino Kashihakumwa.

Swapo secretary general Sophia Shaningwa, her deputy, Uahekua Herunga, and party spokesperson Hilma Nicanor did not answer calls to their cellphones on Tuesday.