The Popular Democratic Movement (PDM) has announced a major staff retrenchment, reducing its workforce from 49 to 14 employees due to financial constraints following the recent elections. 

Party Secretary General Immanuel Ngaringombe revealed that the downsizing is a strategic move to keep the party financially viable after losing significant parliamentary seats and party funding.

The retrenchment affects 16 non-political staff members who will be fully let go, while 19 political elected officials will transition to voluntary work without salary. 

"We have a lot of developmental projects that we have done and also other resources like transport, because you can't do politics if you can't move with peace and with confidence from one point to another. Now, because we have lost income from the government or from the National Assembly, we just have only five seats. We have to review; we have to downsize in order for us to remain relevant and committed to our people."

The party leadership emphasised that they followed proper labour procedures, consulted with staff, and reached mutual agreements.

Despite the challenging circumstances, the PDM says it remains committed to preparing for the 2025 regional and local authority elections. 

The party plans to launch a mobilisation campaign and is currently finalising candidate nomination procedures.

The Secretary General stressed that this is not an end but a reorganisation, stating PDM aims to remain a viable political alternative in Namibia's political landscape.

Staff will receive severance packages and outstanding payments, with the party hoping to avoid potential legal disputes and maintain positive relationships with affected employees.