The political landscape of Namakwaland has taken a dramatic and unexpected twist with the recent defection of a prominent councilor, Mario Baadjies, who has shifted allegiance from the Namakwa Civic Movement (NCM) to the Patriotic Alliance (PA).
This surprising move came to light on Sunday, February 16, during a live podcast interview featuring Baadjies and Pastor Francisco Tejada, where the councilor publicly detailed his motivations for joining the PA.
Cllr. Baadjies shared his conviction that the Patriotic Alliance is better positioned to serve the needs of the community compared to his previous affiliation. He highlighted his tenure as a councilor in Bergsig, emphasizing that during his time at the Nama-Khoi Municipality council, he was disheartened to witness extensive bureaucratic red tape that he believed prioritized personal interests over community welfare. This realization, he claimed, spurred his decision to switch political allegiances in hopes of making a more significant impact on the lives of the residents he represents.
In response to his defection, the NCM swiftly moved to expel Baadjies from the party, issuing a public letter that declared his actions a violation of the core values upheld by the movement.
The party leadership expressed their discontent, with chairperson Richie Cloete stating that Baadjies’ departure has caused a severe rift within the organization, undermining the unity that the NCM had worked hard to maintain.
Cloete went on to articulate concerns about the potential repercussions of this division on the Nama-Khoi Municipality, particularly since the NCM holds a majority position within the municipal council.
In a show of further disapproval, the Nama-Khoi Municipal Speaker, Dr. Guctav Bock, took to social media to express his disappointment regarding Baadjies’ loyalty, describing it as unstable and questionable following his decision to leap to another political faction.
Bock also used the platform to criticize the Patriotic Alliance and its leadership, particularly President Gayton MacKanzi, who also serves as the Minister of Sport, Arts & Culture. Bock likened their actions to those of “men of God in sheep’s clothing,” suggesting that they were undermining community interests while pursuing dubious activities in secrecy.
Bock raised pointed questions about the credibility of the PA’s leadership, juxtaposing their public proclamations of faith and integrity with their seemingly conspiratorial behaviors that he believes detract from community service.
Amidst this turmoil, the Democratic Alliance, who has formed a partnership with the NCM, has remained conspicuously silent, avoiding any public commentary on the unfolding crisis within their coalition.
This silence has led many to speculate about the implications for their collaborative efforts and the overall political stability within the region. As the situation develops, stakeholders are left to ponder the long-term impacts of Baadjies’ defection on the political dynamics of Namakwaland.
