Mallex Shipanga
Social media was abuzz with congratulatory messages to the leader of the National Democratic Party (NDP), Martin Lukato, who has secured a seat in the 2025–2029 National Assembly after decades of a solo journey.
Messages came from Namibians from all walks of life, including politicians from other parties, businesspeople, and news editors.
“AR Political Activism Award 2020. In 2024, Brave Lukato is headed to Parliament. The red star shall find its rightful place in the minds and hearts of Namibians,” said Affirmative Repositioning (AR)’s George Kambala, who is also headed to the National Assembly.
“Never say never! For years, Lukato Martin Lukato has been the butt of many savage jokes. Many cartoons have been drawn about him being a lonely man going nowhere. But he ignored all of them and remained focused on his goal. He is a member of Parliament today. Dance, Tate! Dance,” said Namibia Today editor, Asser Ntinda.
“Politics aside. Congratulations to Honourable Martin Lukato Lukato for making it to the parliament… I can tell you Honourable Lukato is a genuine political leader of our motherland who really wants to uplift the lives of many Namibians,” said businessman Wiseman Anyala.
“Lukato’s journey has been one of resilience, often met with mockery as he campaigned alone, hosting rallies with only a handful of supporters in attendance,” added Yitumbu Yitumbagura II.
Toivo Ndjebela, the editor at the Namibian Sun newspaper, said he met Lukato in the Zoo Park on 2 November while he was on a recruitment drive.
“It wasn’t a good scene, to be honest. The NDP is often accused of being a one-man party, but that madala has sacrificed his entire being for that party from Queensland village, Zambezi Region,” he said.
Businessman John Walenga was beaming with pride.
“Proud of Hon. Lukato Lukato for having made it to Parliament after many years of asking. He should serve as an inspiration to those who fail to make the cut this time around. Life goes on,” said Walenga.
Some referred to Lukato as the original G of Namibian politics.
Christian Harris, who hails from the Zambezi region, described Lukato as ‘Our own version of biblical Moses.’
“The man who before the elections was written off by many prophets of doom and naysayers but he is now on his way to parliament. NDP is about to become the first Zambezi-based party to send a representative to parliament,” said Harris.
In a statement, Lukato accepted the nation’s mandate and vowed to uphold it with integrity and commitment.
“As we embark on this new chapter in our political journey, we do so with a deep sense of purpose and a clear vision for the future. We are aware of the challenges that lie ahead, and we understand the responsibilities that come with being in parliament. Rest assured that I will not disappoint you. I will serve you to the best of my abilities,” he said.
The NDP was formed in 1973.
In 2015, after lying dormant for decades, the NDP ran in the local authority elections in the Zambezi region.
At the time, the party received two votes in Bukalo and 33 in Katima Mulilo, failing to gain a seat.
In 2019, the NDP ran in the national assembly elections and received 4 559 votes, failing to gain a seat.
The trend changed in November when the NDP ran in the national assembly elections yet again.
This time, the party received 6 647 votes, successfully gaining 1 seat.
