By: Ludorf Iyambo
Independent Patriot for Change (IPC) spokesperson Imms Nashinge says IPC does not have any business with former Swakopmud constituency councillor Ciske Smith-Howard.
This comes after Smith-Howard accused the party of owing her N$113 000. “IPC still owes me N$ 113 000 for cost order- until they pay, I believe they shouldn’t talk about the rule of law,” said Smith-Howard.
“Owe her money from what business? I don’t know what she’s talking about. Find out from her. She knows what to do, and she knows where to go. IPC has an office; if there’s money owed to her, she knows where to go,” said Nashinge.
Nashinge said the party would not entertain discussion of that matter.
He questioned why Smith-Howard is running to social media with various comments. “She’s running to social media for what? We don’t have time to massage emotions. We have better things to worry about and the party’s business to run. We don’t have time for Mickey Mouse things,” he told The Villager.
According to media reports, Smith-Howard said that the party failed to settle her legal fees in a High Court in January when IPC wanted to institute disciplinary actions against her.
It is further reported that Smith-Howard was to appear before the party disciplinary committee at the IPC’s headquarters in December 2021.
The hearing was to establish whether she had committed misconduct or bridged provisions of the relevant legislation or the IPC policies and law.
This is about her residency address, which is at Dolphin beach.
Smith-Howard, who has properties in several towns, had dismissed these claims.
Last week, IPC again referenced this matter in the media statement from the office of the national general secretary, which explained why the Swakopmund constituency by-election was taking place.
According to the statement, Smith-Howard violated the principle of the rule of law, the oath of office of regional councillors and the IPC.
The statement read, “It later became clear in October 2021 that she indeed ordinarily resides in the constituency of Walvis Bay rural.”
Smith-Howard was restrained by her party, and she challenged the restraining order in the High Court. The case is pending adjudication. She was fired after being given until 13 May to resign; else, she would get expelled by the party last month.