Tight contest in Oshikoto’s battlegrounds NAMIBIA VOTES 2020

OMUTHIYA - Tsumeb and Oniipa constituencies are Oshikoto region’s key battlegrounds for the upcoming regional council and local authority elections, with over four candidates vying for the hot seats in both areas.

“The elections are tough, victory solely depends on the masses,” these are the words echoed by the majority of candidates contesting the elections.

Oshikoto, once a Swapo stronghold, has seen an infiltration of opposition parties and the independent candidate phenomenon aimed at breaking down the ruling party’s dominance.

The challenge is tough in these constituencies, with new candidates contesting for top honours this time around.

Popular Democratic Movement ( PDM), Landless People’s Movement (LPM), Independent Patriots for Change as well as independent candidates are all hoping to wrestle the two constituencies from Swapo.

Swapo candidate for Oniipa, Vilho Nuunyango said he was open to the challenge.

“I don’t mind the opposition, for all I know they are critics and without any tangible plans to advance people’s interests. Therefore, I call upon the electorates to vote wisely and vote Swapo because it is the capable party,” said Nuunyango.

Once elected, he said, he will advance the provision of water and rural electrification.

On the other hand, PDM candidate for Tsumeb, Walter Kuhanga has appealed to all residents to come in numbers and vote for his party, saying it was the only political formation that has consistently advanced their cause.

Kuhanga added PDM has a blueprint on how it intends to transform Tsumeb, beginning with the enhancement of informal settlements through electrification using renewable energy. He also hopes to address rising unemployment, by advocating for establishment of factories.

“In addition, PDM has a plan which it intends to strength and address the issues of gender based violence. Also on the agenda, will be putting into effect the ‘one Namibia, one plot’, in order for all to have a place to call home,” he said.

This will be done by prioritising locals for the provision of land.