With a population of just over two million, Namibia’s elections could mark a significant shift in the nation's political trajectory. Political parties have now wrapped up their campaigns, setting the stage for what could be a historic moment for the country.

General Manuel Ngaringombe, Secretary General of the opposition Popular Democratic Movement (PDM), spoke to Channel Africa's Jacob Tivane about the party's extensive campaign efforts. Ngaringombe explained that the PDM had been on the road for over two years, with a gruelling schedule that took their presidential candidate to every corner of the country. Despite Namibia's relatively small geographical size, the party traversed 14 political regions, 25 towns, and hundreds of constituencies, engaging citizens through door-to-door visits, rallies, and social media outreach.

The PDM's campaign has been focused on addressing the country’s pressing economic challenges, which Ngaringombe believes have been exacerbated by the long-standing rule of the South West Africa People’s Organization .

Ngaringombe emphasised that while Namibia has enjoyed political independence since 1990, it is still economically colonised, with vast segments of the population facing unemployment, inadequate healthcare, poor education, and a lack of access to land.

The PDM, which prides itself on being a youthful party, argues that it is time for a change. With a leadership that is notably young, including a president aged 48 and Members of Parliament as young as 22, the party seeks to focus on creating jobs, particularly through vocational training in sectors like plumbing, electrical work, and construction. 

The PDM has also called for youth nemployment to be declared a national emergency, highlighting the need for urgent government intervention.

--ChannelAfrica--