Ester Mbathera
The Landless People’s Movement (LPM) is yet to find replacements for Henny Seibeb and Edson Isaacks, who resigned from the party and Parliament on Tuesday.
On Thursday, the party spokesperson, Lifalaza Simataa, said that the party leadership is still consulting on the matter.
“The party’s top leadership is currently engaging in meetings on how to proceed with this matter with relevant stakeholders to ensure the party follows all appropriate procedures and works within protocol given the circumstances of the street resignation, its validity in the process, and the steps the party should take,” he said.
He stated that the party is unwavering and enthusiastic about the process of transitioning and bringing suitable leadership to parliament.
According to the party’s 2019 parliament list, the party’s treasurer, Aina Kodi, is next in line, followed by Jesaja Motinga.
Tui Tyitende, a political analyst, has criticized LPM for its controversial reaction to Seibeb’s resignation.
He described the response as “vile,” “distasteful,” and “acidic.”
“It somehow also perhaps speaks to the character of the individuals that authored this letter. I don’t know whether Swartbooi was involved, and if he was, how he would authorise such a letter. People have their grievances, opposition parties, and governing parties, but you don’t write something like that,” he said.
According to him, the derogatory nature of the letter not only tarnished the reputation of LPM but also sent a damaging message to aspiring politicians and young followers.
“It’s very unfortunate, because, again, as I said, young people are looking up to these individuals and maybe even the young people within the LPM. These were two senior figures in the party that they looked up to,” he said.
He suggested a more diplomatic response from LPM, acknowledging Seibeb’s contributions and wishing him well in future endeavours, which would have been appropriate.
He contended that the letter portrays LPM as a place where dissent faces harsh retaliation, deterring potential members from joining the party.
Tyitende expressed deep concerns about the implications for Namibia’s political landscape.
He emphasised that political parties should uphold a higher standard of discourse, particularly in public communications.
Reflecting on Seibeb’s contributions to LPM since its inception, Tyitende expressed disappointment at the party’s dismissive tone.
“It appears as if LPM is negating the contributions that Seibeb has made since the founding of LPM, not only as a movement but as a registered political party,” he said.
This approach, he argued, sets a negative precedent for political communication and undermines the party’s legacy.
Tyitende also voiced concerns about the broader implications for LPM’s political future.
