Rukoro attracts controversy, in bed with both Nudo, Swanu

Former Namibia Football Association secretary general Barry Rukoro has attracted controversy.

This follows revelations that he will be unveiled as one of the South West Africa National Union (Swanu) potential parliamentarians, after failing to contest te National Unity Democratic Organisation (Nudo)presidency.

Swanu is set to announce Rukoro’s appearance on the party’s parliamentary list today.

Swanu secretary general Wendy Christian confirmed the development to The Namibian yesterday.

“Swanu has urgent announcements to make in light of the upcoming elections, of which Mr Barry Rukoro joined the parliamentary list of Swanu,” she said.

Rukoro and some of his supporters in Nudo are joining the party as by law, someone cannot be on the party list when they are not members, said Christian.

“We are excited, obviously. They are bringing us the numbers, but we also have to be cautious and sensitive about what we bring into the movement, especially in an election year,” she added.

She said the party has designed a write up on how the relationship will be dealt with, which protects the party.

Christian said the manifesto Rukoro presented to Swanu speaks to the same challenges the party aims to solve.

Rukoro yesterday confirmed to The Namibian that he is joining the Swanu parliamentary list.

“Whether I am still in Nudo, let’s talk about that tomorrow,” he said.

MIXED FEELINGS

Political scientist Rui Tyitende says the possibility of Rukoro joining will be received with mixed feelings.

“[Swanu president Evilastus] Kaaronda is not traditionally a Swanu member and is perceived by Swanu loyalists as an outsider,” he says.

Tyitende says the fact that there are currently two Swanus, with the possibility of Rukoro joining, will unleash new dynamics and impetus into the party.

“Rukoro should perhaps be reminded that Swanu has never obtained more than one seat in the National Assembly since independence, and at one point garnered zero seats,” he says.

“So what are the chances that Rukoro will go to parliament? As it stands, Swanu is not going anywhere politically and Rukoro’s political ambitions will be buried with his short contested tenure as Nudo president,” he says.

Political analyst Ndumba Kamwanyah says Rukoro’s decision to join Swanu is surprising, especially after leading a faction within Nudo.

“It signals internal issues in Nudo and might lead to further splits,” he says.

Kamwanyah says Rukoro’s move to Swanu may not significantly change voting patterns.

“It’s unclear if Rukoro has a strong following that could boost Swanu’s support base. Nudo may lose some support, but this switch likely won’t create a big impact,” he says.

Kamwanyah advises Swanu to manage the situation carefully to avoid conflicts.

“Bringing in a faction with its own leadership could cause internal tensions in Swanu, especially around power and leadership roles,” he says.

He says the fact that Rukoro’s manifesto aligns with Swanu’s goals is good and may strengthen the party’s vision.

“It could also lead to power struggles if his faction pushes for more control. Swanu needs to ensure unity while integrating new ideas,” he says.