A victory for women

Political commentators have described the election of Utjiua Muinjangue as Nudo president as a victory for all Namibian women.

They have also called on other political parties to elect more women into their top leadership structures.

Muinjangue, an academic and social justice activist, was elected as the new Nudo leader after securing a victory over Vetaruhe Kandorozu during the party's extraordinary elective congress held in Windhoek at the weekend.

Muinjangue is the first female president of a Namibian political party.

This, political commentator Ndumba Kamwanya said, is a significant victory for women as it transforms the country's political landscape.

“From a historical point of view, it is a huge victory for women in general and not just for Nudo. What it means for the nation is that for the first time we are going to have a female presidential candidate that is going to contest (the upcoming national presidential elections, if she contests against the incumbent Swapo's Hage Geingob),” Kamwanya said.

He said this is huge in terms of our democracy, “in a sense that political parties are able to field female candidates to compete for the first position in the country”.

“It's probably good for political parties to put more women in their top structures, simply because they can appeal more to voters than male leaders.

But you also have to remember that when you look at the records in this country, you will realise that the number of male leaders who have been embroiled in corruption-related cases are more than the women,” Kamwanyah

“Hardly have you heard about women in leadership being involved in questionable and unethical issues. From that perspective I think it is good for parties to encourage women to take over party structures.”

Kamwanya, however, pointed out that despite Muinjangue's victory more needs to be done to have more female representation in the party's leadership.

Political commentator Fanuel Kaapama said as much as Nudo should be commended for having elected a woman as party president, this does not guarantee them success during the upcoming National Assembly and presidential polls, slated for later his year.

Kaapama was asked whether Muinjangue's victory would see Nudo gain more votes, because the majority of the electorate are women.

“There are many factors that are involved when it comes to how a voter decides to vote; they do not necessarily look at the gender of a candidate.

“They could be influenced by issues of tribalism, gender issues and historical considerations. There are just so many issues,” Kaapama said.

Professor Nico Horn commended Nudo for electing Muinjangue as party president, saying it was a bold move by the party.

“Thumbs up to Nudo, as they are often criticised for being an ethnic and traditional party. It was a great decision by them. I think she is good choice,” Horn said.

He said Muinjangue's victory will give the party some momentum, as it prepares for the upcoming general election.

Peter Kazongominja was elected Nudo vice-president, while Joseph Kauandenge will serve as secretary-general. He is deputised by Uaraa Uapingene.

KENYA KAMBOWE