Politics

NEFF Leadership Crisis: Party President Denies Assault Allegations

NEFF president Epafras Mukwiilongo faces assault allegations from party secretary general, highlighting internal tensions amid election campaign disputes. Leadership denies claims as party stability hangs in balance.

ParJasmine Demraoui
Publié le
#namibian-politics#neff-party#political-controversy#opposition-parties#internal-disputes#election-campaign#party-leadership#political-violence
Image d'illustration pour: NEFF president Mukwiilongo denies assaulting party secretary general

NEFF Secretary General Festus Shaduva displays injuries allegedly sustained during party leadership confrontation

In a developing political controversy, Namibia Economic Freedom Fighters (NEFF) president Epafras Mukwiilongo has strongly denied allegations of assaulting the party's secretary general, highlighting growing tensions within one of Namibia's emerging political forces.

Assault Allegations Surface

The controversy emerged when NEFF secretary general Festus Shaduva appeared in a widely circulated social media video sporting a swollen cheek, alleging that Mukwiilongo had physically attacked him. The incident reportedly occurred at Mukwiilongo's establishment, The Site, in Oshakati West.

Presidential Denial and Location Dispute

Mukwiilongo categorically denied these allegations in an interview, stating he has been residing in Elim village in the Omusati region since last year, making physical contact with Shaduva impossible. "I don't know that story. That is a false story. I have not seen that person in months," Mukwiilongo declared.

Campaign Vehicle Controversy

According to Shaduva, the confrontation stemmed from disagreements over the party's election mobilization strategy. The dispute centered on the location of campaign vehicles in Elim, which Shaduva claimed was hampering the party's operational efficiency during the November election campaign.

Aftermath and Party Future

While Shaduva chose not to file a police report, considering it "cowardice," he revealed having one subsequent conversation with Mukwiilongo. The secretary general is now contemplating his future within the party, adding another layer of uncertainty to NEFF's political stability.

Jasmine Demraoui

Journalist in governance and climate reform, based in Windhoek.