SWAPO, Namibia’s ruling party, is poised for another electoral triumph as it approaches the presidential and parliamentary elections on November 27, 2024. With Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah as its presidential candidate, the party continues to garner strong support from fellow liberation movements, notably South Africa’s ANC and Zimbabwe’s ZANU PF.
The ANC dispatched a delegation led by Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, while ZANU PF sent a team led by veteran Douglas Mahiya. This show of solidarity among former liberation movements underscores their shared commitment to safeguarding sovereignty and resisting neo-imperial interference in African affairs.
United Against Neo-Imperialism
Former liberation movements face mounting challenges from neo-imperial forces seeking to displace principled legacy parties with compliant opposition groups that align with Western economic agendas. The camaraderie displayed by SWAPO, ANC, and ZANU PF signals a united front against these pressures. Their shared history of resisting colonialism binds them, making their cooperation a defense of regional independence and self-determination.
Solidarity, Not Interference
Critics have argued that such support could be perceived as political meddling, but the collaboration among legacy parties reflects a profound solidarity rooted in the liberation struggle. These alliances are not just political but represent a collective stand against the exploitation of Africa’s resources by external forces.
Opposition’s Task
Rather than decrying this camaraderie, opposition parties are encouraged to focus on articulating their policies and addressing the needs of the electorate. Accusations of undue interference from liberation movements only underscore the opposition’s alignment with Western interests, a stark contrast to the sovereignty-driven agenda of the legacy parties.
As SWAPO approaches this decisive election, the unwavering support from its liberation movement allies highlights a broader regional commitment to preserving hard-won freedoms and charting an independent path for Africa’s future.