Windhoek: The National Unity Democratic Organisation (NUDO) has redirected its focus to the Kunene and Omusati regions in preparation for the Regional Council and Local Authority elections set for 26 November.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the party, which unveiled its candidates for the forthcoming elections, aims to extend and restore its presence in the Kunene and Omusati regions, specifically in the Opuwo Urban, Opuwo Rural, and Ruacana constituencies, as well as the local authorities.

Currently, NUDO enjoys power in the constituencies of Okakarara, Otjinene, Aminuis, and Omatako, including seats in the local authorities of Gobabis (2), Windhoek (1), Otjinene (3), Omaruru (1), Leonardville (1), and Okakarara (2), but are seeking to expand its influence.

In a recent interview with Nampa, NUDO's Kunene regional secretary Inyandisa Kavari confirmed the names of candidates vying for seats in November's elections, emphasizing the party's ambition to gain control as they aim to restore their previous footprints that were affected by the party's internal disputes, which undermined the party's credibility among its electorate.

Kavari stated that NUDO is now more united than ever, and that the electorate understands what is at stake. "In addition to other regions where we won in the last elections, we have now shifted our focus to the north as we aim to expand our presence there as well. In the past, we had councillors at Opuwo Town Council and Ruacana, and we need to restore that," he said.

He noted that the party has selected 'tested and trusted' candidates who will ensure that NUDO's mandate, plans, and strategies are implemented once elected in November. "As a party, we recognise the potential and challenges in these areas, and we are committed to addressing the concerns of the people and providing them with viable solutions. NUDO will empower local voices while ensuring their needs are met diligently," he added.

For the Opuwo Urban constituency, the party will be represented by Kaitikirue Harry Hijatjiua, while Maria Kuvare, Petrus Bredy, Ngatuve Mbinge, Uundjeekuje Keimune, and Uakaa Mbinge will run for the Opuwo local authority. The party also decided that former Ruacana local authority councillor Daniel Unaro Munepapa will run again for that position, while Kaireko Mureko will contest for the Opuwo Rural constituency.