Renthia Kaimbi
A coalition of youth and student affiliates from across Namibia’s political spectrum has thrown its weight behind Ester Simon as their sole candidate for the position of executive chairperson of the National Youth Council (NYC).
The endorsement, announced during a joint press conference on Tuesday, brought together groups including the Student Union of Namibia (SUN), the Popular Democratic Movement (PDM) Youth League, the Congress of Democrats (CoD) youth representatives, the Rally for Democracy and Progress (RDP) Youth Wing, the Swapo Party Youth League (SPYL) and the Highlands Youth Organization, ahead of the NYC’s elective General Assembly in Swakopmund later this week.
Simon is set to contest the position against former Namibia National Students Organisation (NANSO) president and NYC board member, Simon Taapopi.
Addressing the media, the coalition stressed that Namibia’s future demands that young people rise above political differences and work together for national development.
“The future of our nation is a shared generational responsibility. Through unity, collaboration and a common vision, we stand together in support of leadership that can effectively champion the aspirations of Namibia’s youth,” the group stated, adding that their support is rooted in a shared commitment to youth empowerment rather than political affiliation.
They described Simon as a principled, capable, and inclusive leader who is ideally positioned to advance the interests of young Namibians and reinforce the NYC’s role as a vital institution.
The coalition highlighted Simon’s track record, noting her historic tenure as the first female President of NANSO and her continental recognition, including an award from the All-Africa Students Union for her work in education and community development through Joyrise Private Academy.
They also pointed to her appointment as an Economic Advisor to the late President Hage Geingob as evidence of her policy acumen and dedication to national development.
Ndemuweda Nghixulifwa of the Highlands Youth Organization stated that they are not relying on Simon’s expertise alone, vowing to ensure she is equipped with a strong and competent board to carry out the mandate of genuine economic empowerment for young people across the country.
“Yes, indeed, we have endorsed and pledged our full support to Ester Simon for the position of executive chairperson,” Nghixulifwa declared, explaining that their decision stems from having identified a leader whose impact is already evident through her diverse portfolio and extensive experience, which they believe can take the Council to the next level.
“We know that the National Youth Council is a strategic asset of the State and as a result we need to ensure it carries out its distinct mandate by addressing all the pressing issues that the youth currently face,” he added.
The coalition urged all NYC affiliates to participate in the upcoming elections and to support leadership that prioritises youth empowerment, employment creation, education, entrepreneurship, and meaningful participation in decision-making processes.
SUN board chairperson Benhard Kavau called on all young people to support Simon’s candidacy regardless of their political affiliations, arguing that issues like unemployment and access to education affect all young Namibians equally.
“In times when the youth demand unity, principled leadership, and a renewed vision for progress, we look to Comrade Ester Simon. She embodies the aspirations of a generation seeking meaningful participation, economic empowerment, social justice, and accountable governance,” said Kavau.
Meanwhile, Vinomaandero Murirua, chairperson of the CoD youth body, urged the current interim leadership to step aside while declaring that their faction would not compromise its votes for Simon.
“We do not want the Council to be tampered with as what we are currently hearing, as a result we trust in her leadership skills. We would like to place it on record that we are not going to compromise our votes to Ester Simon and we urge Taapopi to withdraw before it’s too late,” he said.
