Interview: IPC’s Five-Year Journey: From Startup Party to Political Force

The Independent Patriots for Change (IPC) believes it has transformed the political landscape in Namibia, growing rapidly from a newly formed movement into the country’s official opposition. Spokesperson Immanuel Nashinge says this rise reflects the trust and expectations of Namibians from all walks of life.

In an interview with Leonard Witbeen, Nashinge described IPC as a “people’s political home,” saying its grassroots foundation and commitment to participatory democracy have shaped its core identity. “We’ve embedded grassroots participation into our political DNA,” he said. “We’re not just criticizing—we’re preparing for governance.”

He highlighted the party’s major accomplishments: securing 20 seats in the National Assembly, establishing a functional shadow cabinet, and maintaining strongholds in regions like Walvis Bay, Swakopmund, and Zambezi. IPC has 66 local authority councillors and five regional councillors across all 14 regions.

Nashinge said discipline and principle-based politics have been crucial. “We’ve recalled members who failed to meet standards, not to look good, but to do what’s right,” he explained, referencing recent removals of councillors in Windhoek and Swakopmund for failing to uphold accountability.

He also credited the party’s push for electoral reforms, including a proposal for voter ID use, and its influence in driving political education across the country. “Today, Namibians are quoting the Constitution and questioning governance more than ever before. That’s because of the civic work we’ve done,” he noted.

Nashinge expressed concern over the rise of tribalism and racism but said IPC is committed to national unity. “We’re in all 121 constituencies. This is not just a political milestone—it’s a patriotic mission,” he added.

Reflecting on the party’s journey, Nashinge said IPC’s story is one of “social and political re-engineering,” and its members remain focused on pushing Namibia forward—economically, socially, and morally.

“We’re not done yet. This is only the beginning.”