SPYL suspends Kavango East mobiliser over alleged interference in internal affairs

RUNDU, 02 JUN (NAMPA) – The Swapo Party Youth League (SPYL) regional executive committee (REC) in Kavango East has suspended regional mobiliser Bibiana Shapi pending the outcome of an investigation into allegations levelled against her.
The decision was taken by the SPYL REC while disciplinary processes are underway.
According to a letter dated 01 June 2026 and addressed to the Swapo regional coordinator and the SPYL national executive committee (NEC), seen by this publication, Shapi is accused of attempting to influence the removal of elected REC members outside the organisation’s established procedures, allegedly causing division and instability within the regional leadership.
The allegations also relate to a circulating audio recording in which Shapi and her uncle allegedly discuss an NEC decision concerning the election of a regional secretary, as well as efforts to persuade a nominated candidate to withdraw from the contest.
“The REC considers such conduct to be contrary to the principles of discipline, unity, collective leadership and organisational democracy upon which the youth league is founded,” the letter states.
The REC further resolved that it was necessary to suspend Shapi from her position pending the conclusion of the disciplinary process and recommended that SPYL regional treasurer Rauna Ntjamba serve in an acting capacity.
“The NEC is hereby informed of this development and is requested to take note of the suspension,” the letter reads.
The suspension comes amid internal disagreements over the succession of the regional secretary position, which became vacant after Anselm Marungu was appointed Deputy Minister of Environment, Forestry and Tourism in April.
The SPYL convened an extraordinary regional conference on Saturday to elect a new regional secretary, but divisions reportedly emerged over the succession process.
When approached for comment on Tuesday, Swapo Kavango East regional coordinator Ottilie Shinduvi confirmed receiving the letter and said she was still studying its contents.
(NAMPA)
SH/PS/AS