The Namibian Economic Freedom Fighters (NEFF) are facing internal tensions after Secretary General Festus Shaduva claimed he was physically assaulted by party President Epafras Mukwiilongo. The alleged incident reportedly occurred two weeks ago at Mukwiilongo’s Oshakati West shebeen, The Site.
Shaduva said the confrontation began when he questioned why the party’s mobilisation campaign vehicles for the November elections were stationed at Elim. Concerned about delays in reaching campaign destinations, he says Mukwiilongo became furious and attacked him. “He doesn’t like anyone questioning the location of the vehicles. He hit me and kicked me, and I had to defend myself until bystanders intervened,” Shaduva said.
A video circulating on social media shows Shaduva with a swollen cheek, appearing to confirm his version of events. Despite this, Shaduva has chosen not to report the matter to the police, describing it as an act that would signal “cowardice.” He said he later confronted Mukwiilongo about the behaviour, who appeared somewhat remorseful but continued to deny the assault.
Mukwiilongo, meanwhile, strongly denied the allegations, told Local News Outlet that he has not been in contact with Shaduva and has been staying at Elim village in the Omusati region since last year. “I have not seen that person in months. That story is false,” he said.
Meanwhile, one of NEFF strong mobilizer and recruit member, Michael Amushelelo has stepped back from public and party engagements to focus on personal matters and has not been seen participating in party activities recently.
Shaduva said he is still weighing his future within NEFF, amid growing questions over leadership conduct and party cohesion ahead of the November elections.
