A Fierce Battle Unfolds in the Zambezi Region
The Zambezi Region is set to be a battleground in the upcoming Regional Council and Local Authority Elections, with a tumultuous past and recent administrative controversies adding fuel to the fire.
Spanning eight constituencies, including Katima Mulilo Urban, Rural, Kongola, Kabbe North, Kabbe South, Linyanti, Sibbinda, and Judea Lyaboloma, the region has a rich and complex political landscape. The 2020 Regional Council election was a fierce contest between the ruling Swapo party and independent candidates, with the results highlighting the region's diverse political preferences.
Swapo emerged victorious in several constituencies, such as Katima Mulilo Urban, where John Muchila secured 1831 votes, and Katima Mulilo Rural, won by Simushi Wardens Matengu with 1290 votes. However, independent candidates gave Swapo a run for their money, with Divai Humphrey defeating Swapo's Sinalumbu Bafeze in Judea Lyaboloma, and Busihu Bennety Likulela claiming victory in Kongola.
But here's where it gets controversial... The Zambezi Region has a challenging history. Former Democratic Turnhalle Alliance (now PDM) president, Mishake Muyongo, was linked to the Caprivi Liberation Army, advocating for the region's secession. This turbulent past has left its mark, and the region has also faced administrative issues. In October, the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) arrested the chief regional officer, Regina Ndopu-Lubinda, and other senior officials for alleged corruption in a N$4 million project.
This has sparked protests from residents, frustrated by prolonged delays and mismanaged budgets. With these recent events, the power lies with the people to hold their leaders accountable. The 2025 Regional Council election saw a high voter registration rate, with 86% of eligible voters registering, totaling 54 347. Katima Mulilo Urban leads with 20 462 registered voters, followed by Katima Mulilo Rural with 6 516.
And this is the part most people miss... The region's local authority election will be a multi-party contest, with Affirmative Repositioning, All People's Party, Independent Patriot's for Change, National Democratic Party of Namibia, Popular Democratic Movement, Republican Party, Swapo, the United Party of Namibia, and the Katima Alliance Development Association all vying for seats. With such a diverse range of political parties, the outcome is sure to be intriguing.
So, who will emerge as the winners in this hotly contested region? Will the people's voices be heard, and will their votes make a difference? These are the questions on everyone's minds as the Zambezi Region gears up for its democratic process. Stay tuned, as the results will undoubtedly shape the region's future.
