Shaningwa denies plot to topple Nandi-Ndaitwah
Swapo secretary general Sophia Shaningwa has publicly denied rumors that she is plotting to replace party president Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah. She reaffirmed her loyalty to the party leader and emphasized the importance of respecting seniority.
Why it matters
Internal political stability within Namibia's ruling party is critical for the country's governance and upcoming political transitions.
Swapo secretary general Sophia Shaningwa has dismissed speculation that she intends to unseat party president Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah.
Speaking at a Swapo Women’s Council event held in Nandi-Ndaitwah’s home village of Okongo on Saturday, Shaningwa addressed rumours circulating within political circles that she harbours ambitions to replace the party leader.
Using a military analogy to illustrate the intensity of her support, Shaningwa said in the run up to the Swapo elective congress in 2022, she fought tirelessly to secure Nandi-Ndaitwah’s victory despite opposition within the party.
“I was commanding that battle. If it were a gun, it would be a Katyusha with 40 barrels firing for mee Netumbo to become president.
“Some people said no, but now I hear people saying I want to topple Netumbo. I am not a person with a mental illness. If I wanted to become president, I would have contested in 2022,” she said.
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