Experts warn against hunting for Swapo traitors after President Nandi-Ndaitwah criticized members who broke party lines. She called committee members suspects when opposition leader Utaara Mootu won deputy chair with help from Swapo votes. Political analyst Ndumba Kamwanyah says people should vote based on personal beliefs rather than forced loyalty.
Kamwanyah said looking for dissenters creates fear among those who follow their conscience. Parties can teach members about loyalty, but cannot demand total agreement because people think differently. Political scientist Rui Tyitende called the president's comments unfortunate because democracies allow independent thinking. He believes these moments strengthen democracy when people engage with issues critically instead of thinking like everyone else.
Tyitende noted that national needs must come before party interests. He agreed that party unity matters, but reminded everyone that members remain individuals with their own minds. Democracy differs from places where leaders control all decisions, he added.
Kamwanyah said looking for dissenters creates fear among those who follow their conscience. Parties can teach members about loyalty, but cannot demand total agreement because people think differently. Political scientist Rui Tyitende called the president's comments unfortunate because democracies allow independent thinking. He believes these moments strengthen democracy when people engage with issues critically instead of thinking like everyone else.
Tyitende noted that national needs must come before party interests. He agreed that party unity matters, but reminded everyone that members remain individuals with their own minds. Democracy differs from places where leaders control all decisions, he added.
