The Porpular Democratic Movement (PDM) has withdrawn its candidate from the Otjiwarongo by-election. Its Secretary General, Immanuel Ngaringombe confirmed this to NBC News. The party has instead opted to rally behind independent candidate, Erastus Kaulikufwa Mbumba. Supporters of independent candidates will in turn throw their weight behind Uaurikua Cornelius Veja Kakuva, the PDM candidate in Opuwo. The Otjiwarongo and Opuwo by-elections are set for 9 March. .