This statement from Brian Jaftha, President, Ganja Users of Namibia Party to Cannabiz Africa readers
Namibia stands at a crossroads.
The recent High Court ruling made one thing clear: the decision on cannabis policy now rests with Parliament and the people.
As President of the Ganja Users of Namibia Party, GUNP, I welcome that. It is time for honest, adult conversation.
1. How GUNP is Transforming Into a Political Party
GUNP began as a movement advocating for the rights of adult cannabis users and for hemp as an economic driver. To take that voice to Parliament, we are now registering as a formal political party with the Electoral Commission of Namibia, ECN.
In terms of the Electoral Act, we must submit a constitution, a manifesto, and 500 signatures of support from each region, with a registration fee of N$25,000 (N$1 = 1 ZAR). We have begun that process and our next meeting with ECN is scheduled for 24 July 2026. We are currently collecting signatures in Khomas, and we invite all registered voters who believe in a new approach to join us.
2. What GUNP Stands For Beyond Cannabis
While our name reflects our origin, GUNP stands for much more. We are a party of economic empowerment, personal freedom, and social justice.
Beyond cannabis reform, GUNP advocates for:
Job Creation: A regulated hemp industry can create thousands of jobs in farming, manufacturing, textiles, and construction. Hemp is one of the most versatile crops on earth.
Criminal Justice Reform: We must stop criminalizing adults for personal use. Police and court resources should focus on violent crime, not on adults making private choices.
Healthcare and Education: Revenue from a regulated industry must be invested into drug education, treatment, and youth development programs.
Small Business Support: We want to see Namibian farmers and entrepreneurs leading this new industry, not just big corporations.
3. Are We Pushing for Full Adult-Use Legalization?
Yes. GUNP is advocating for the full legalization, regulation, and taxation of cannabis for adult use, 18 years and older.
This is the same approach we take with alcohol and tobacco. Adults must have the right to make adult choices without the fear of a criminal record that ruins job prospects and families. Regulation allows us to set quality standards, age limits, and to generate tax revenue for the state instead of profits for the black market.
4. Which Election Will GUNP Contest?
Our immediate goal is to complete registration with ECN this year. Once registered, GUNP intends to contest the next General and Regional Council Elections.
We are building from the ground up, region by region, so that when Namibians go to the polls, they have a real choice for jobs, justice, and freedom.
The court has spoken.
Now it is up to us.
The way forward is through Parliament, through policy, and through the vote.
GUNP: Adult Rights. Adult Choices.
