Swapo party Secretary General Sophia Shaningwa, has expressed concern that some of the party’s Elders Council Committee (ECC) regional branches have not yet properly concluded their renewal of mandates, ahead of the party’s congress next year.

Shaningwa while addressing the party’s ECC meeting here Saturday said party wings must always renew their mandates as per the party procedures as it cannot hold a congress with structures that have expired. There is no way the party will mobilise effectively if the structures are not in place come 2024 Presidential and National Assembly elections, she said.

‘Terms of office as stipulated in our constitution are very clear and we must adhere to our own policies as provided for in our constitution. Rules and procedures are drafted in our constitution both mother body, wings and unions. We as a collective do not want to see unnecessary court challenges against us and from within, and therefore constitutional provisions must be adhered to,’ said Shaningwa.

She added that the elders are the backbone, therefore, the entire party leadership is looking up to them to provide wisdom, advice and guidance to everyone within the party and followers.

‘I should also indicate that early next year we shall hold Swapo National Policy Conference and the elders shall be called upon for wisdom so that our research documents and presentations shall carry solid information and advice. We are indeed looking forward to hearing more from you, as you are indeed the foundation of knowledge in our party,’ stated Shaningwa.

She further advised the elders to come up with good solutions that would benefit the Swapo party, while calling for unity.

Source: The Namibian Press Agency