FORMER Koevoet and SWATF soldiers plan to participate in this year’s national elections through the dormant National Patriotic Front of Namibia political party.
The National Patriotic Front (NPF) was first set up as a coalition in 1989 by the late veteran politician Moses Katjiuongua. At the time, it consisted of Action National Settlement, Swanu and the Caprivi African National Union.
The party enjoyed representation in parliament for two consecutive terms between 1990 and 1994, and 1995 and 1999, before lying low.
The NPF’s acting secretary general, Uapiruka Papama, said they are now in the process of reviving the party with the Electoral Commission of Namibia.
Speaking at a press conference held in Windhoek last week, Papama said they will have a congress at the end of August for the election of leaders into various positions.
“Namvet, SWATF and Koevoet pressure groups have decided to have a political branch due to several reasons. For the last 29 years, we did not consider taking politics very seriously.
“Through our campaign for justice over the last 10 years, we have realised that without engaging in politics, justice will not be delivered,” stated Papama.
He said they have realised that politics is the gateway to ‘open the doors of peace and political dialogue’ to all conflicts.
The majority of former soldiers are getting restless, something which he fears could lead to confrontations with law – enforcement agencies, Papama added.
He said most Namibians also have a perception that one should vote for loyalty or along tribal lines, which should not be the case.
“It was decided that the NPF be reactivated. The party is resuscitated. It is on motion and ready to take part in the November 2019 election, and become the official opposition party,” enthused Papama.
The Namibian has reported over the years on the plight of the former SWATF and ex-Koevoet members, who have been seeking recognition from the government as war veterans in the name of reconciliation.
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