Controversy and Allegations Cloud Namibia’s Election Results

Namibia’s 2024 elections have been branded a chaotic endeavor, with allegations of irregularities, deliberate delays, and procedural violations casting shadows over the credibility of the process.

Election observers have raised serious concerns about the Electoral Commission of Namibia (ECN). Among the issues highlighted were shortages of ballot papers and delays that left voters frustrated and disenfranchised.

The Southern Africa Human Rights Lawyers Election Observer Mission noted multiple operational lapses. Their report pointed to missing materials at polling stations, late openings, and inadequate preparation, leading to public protests.

Some voters endured long hours in the heat. Others reportedly abandoned polling stations before casting their votes due to delays and logistical failures. Such incidents amplified public dissatisfaction with the ECN.

By mid-morning on election day, many polling stations had exhausted ballot supplies. The ECN had earlier claimed it printed an additional 400,000 ballot papers, but the shortage contradicted this assurance.

Popular Democratic Movement (PDM) president McHenry Venaani rejected the results outright, calling them a “sham” and accusing the system of being manipulated. He hinted at legal action alongside other opposition parties.

Landless People’s Movement leader Bernadus Swartbooi also criticized the process. He alleged the ECN plunged the elections into a deeper crisis, signaling potential legal challenges from his party.

National Unity Democratic Organisation member Joseph Kauandenge took to social media, calling for credibility in election outcomes. He warned that Namibia’s democracy depended on transparent processes.

The Independent Patriots for Change (IPC) leader Panduleni Itula vowed to reject the election results, regardless of their outcome. His stance reflected growing opposition frustration over perceived systemic failings.

Henning Melber, a political analyst, criticized the ECN for undermining public trust. He suggested ECN officials resign to pave the way for credible future elections.

Observers noted procedural anomalies during the extended voting period. Some polling stations operated on private property, prompting questions about impartiality. Long queues led to voters scrambling for alternative locations.

The African Union Electoral Observation Mission, led by Speciosa Kazibwe, called for clarity. She described the ECN’s approach as disorganized and blamed them for voter confusion.

Critics claim the ECN’s handling of the election violated Namibia’s Constitution and Electoral Act. They also cited the Southern African Development Community guidelines on democratic elections as unmet.

The opposition alleges influence from Zimbabwe’s ruling party, Zanu-PF, in the election process. The accusations have fueled regional concerns about political interference.

As Namibia grapples with the fallout, opposition leaders are uniting to challenge the results in court. Their shared objective: to ensure transparency and accountability in future elections.

The ECN’s credibility crisis could tarnish Namibia’s democratic reputation. Calls for reform and accountability are mounting, signaling a contentious road ahead for the nation’s political landscape.

The Zim Bulletin