The ruling SWAPO Party has expelled Oniipa mayor and local authority councillor, Jafet Augustus, after he registered as an independent candidate for the upcoming Oniipa Constituency elections.
In a letter issued by the party’s secretary general, Sophia Shaningwa, Augustus’ decision to run independently was described as a direct violation of the SWAPO Party constitution.
“By registering as an independent candidate to contest against the official SWAPO candidate, Mr. Augustus has deliberately acted against the interests of the party and, in doing so, has effectively expelled himself,” Shaningwa stated.
The expulsion means Augustus automatically loses his position as a SWAPO representative in the Oniipa Town Council.
The development has sparked discussion among political observers in the Oshikoto Region, who say the incident highlights growing internal tensions within the ruling party ahead of the upcoming elections.
Despite his expulsion, Augustus is expected to continue his campaign as an independent candidate, positioning himself as an alternative voice for residents of Oniipa Constituency.
