A faction of the Rally for Democracy and Progress (RDP) has filed criminal charges against Mike Kavekotora and Kennedy Shekupakela for false representation with the intent to commit fraud. 

The party alleges that Kavekotora and Shekupakela falsely claimed leadership positions despite not securing the required 50+1 percent of votes in the 2019 internal elections.

The faction also accuses the Electoral Commission of Namibia (ECN) of aiding and abetting the alleged fraudulent representation. 

According to the faction led by former RDP leader Kandy Nehova, Kavekotora allegedly received 49.59% and Shekupakela 47.2% of the votes, failing to meet the majority needed. 

Despite this, Nehova says Kavekotora proclaimed himself president, violating the RDP's constitution. 

He claimed that the ECN's involvement in these actions has led to significant internal discord within the RDP.

The party also calls for an investigation into the ECN's role and highlights the failure to refund party deposits totaling N$25,000. 

On July 2, 2024, the ECN was served with a notice by the police under the Criminal Procedures Act.

Attempts to get comments from Mike Kavekotora and Kennedy Shekupakela were not successful, as Kavekotora's phone went unanswered and he did not reply to text messages sent to his WhatsApp.

As Namibia approaches the November 27 elections, the RDP urges the ECN to ensure transparency and fairness, stressing the importance of upholding the rule of law.

The Electoral Commission of Namibia said it will respond in due course.