At the Popular Democratic Movement's second national elective congress in Katima Mulilo, the party's president, McHenry Venaani emphasized the importance of grace in both victory and defeat.

"Youth, we brought you to parliament. A position doesn't determine your future," he said. "Walk with the elders, strategize differently to win more votes. For those contesting, you've been friends for years. You have the energy, power, and zeal—but only one can win. The winner must embrace those who didn’t succeed."

He continued, advising: "Don't lose an election and jump ship to another party. If you contest, do so with the mindset that you will be the last man or woman standing."

The congress was attended by members from the party's sixteen political regions. Venaani assured those seeking positions on the central committee that they would be tasked with mobilizing voters ahead of the upcoming general elections.

"Creating visibility for the party is not just the responsibility of the leadership," Venaani noted. "This election is a pivotal moment that will shape our nation’s future. Whether we hold formal positions or not, we must mobilize every resource and talent to present the PDM as an attractive option, especially for the youth."

Venaani, who has led the party for a decade, announced this would be his final term as president. 

"This is my last elective congress as president. Five years from now, I'll be here to hand over power to the next leader," he said. "As a leader, I’ve been called many things, but that’s the job—to create a future. I say this without hesitation: our next leader will likely be a woman."