Stefanus Nashama
The Independent Patriots for Change (IPC) has decided to withhold media comments about the electoral process until 30 January 2025.
This move has elicited mixed reactions from political analysts, the media, and party members.
Graham Hopwood, the executive director of the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR), supports the decision.
Graham Hopwood, the executive director of the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR), defended the decision, saying it aligns with the party’s focus on presenting its legal arguments in court.
Hopwood stressed the importance of prioritising the legal process over public commentary.
“Given that the case before the Electoral Court is technically sub judice, it’s understandable why he might choose not to comment, as such remarks could potentially distract from the party’s legal arguments,” he explained.
Hopwood’s comments come after IPC leader Panduleni Itula on Tuesday told the Windhoek Observer that the party will not respond to any media enquiries regarding the electoral process.
Itula clarified that the IPC’s decision aims to safeguard national interests and protect constitutional values.
He added that the party is using this time to reassess its political strategies and address any constitutional hurdles.
“We have not and shall not entertain any and all media inquiries relating to and/or flowing out from the electoral process of the presidential and national assembly elections of 27th November 2024, under any circumstances, safe for the unforeseeable national interest of constitutional values,” he said.
He added that any inquiries in this regard should wait until next year when the IPC will have concluded its reassessment of political electoral strategies, any prevailing constitutional impediments, and potential solutions.
Namibia Media Trust director Zoe Titus expressed concern about the decision.
She acknowledged Itula’s right to remain silent but argued that the Namibian public deserves transparency, particularly regarding electoral processes.
“Why does he not take us into his confidence and allow us to be part of this journey of discovery?” Titus questioned.
An IPC member, Michael Shekutaamba stated that although the party respects the rule of law and advocates for the prevalence of democracy, it also has a responsibility to communicate with the media.
“Sometimes, media questions directed at political parties may have different motives. This is why parties often face scrutiny,” he said.
Shekutaamba further stated that Itula is a leader who understands the law, and such a decision does not contravene both the law and the freedom of the press.
Stefanus Mvula, another IPC member, stated that the right to remain silent should extend to the inspection of electoral materials.
He added that this issue is currently before the court and should not be discussed at this time.
“The matter is before the court and in the hands of the legal experts. Hence, prejudice and meeting in court is the way to go next year,” he said.
Joseph Nashilundo, the IPC chairperson for the Samora Machel constituency, stated that the decision was made collectively.
“It is a collective decision to safeguard the pre-results of the court case,” he said.
The inspection of election materials will take place from December 18 to 19 December.
