Tensions are rising in Namibia after the controversial extension of the presidential and parliamentary elections into the weekend, caused by significant “irregularities” that hindered the voting process.
The Electoral Commission of Namibia (ECN) announced on Friday that polling stations, originally scheduled to close two days earlier, would remain open until Saturday night. This extension was necessitated by “logistical failures,” which included a shortage of ballot papers and overheating electronic tablets used to register voters. These issues led to long delays, with many citizens forced to stand in long queues for hours.
The delay has sparked frustration among the electorate, particularly the youth, who feel disillusioned by a lack of opportunities in the country. Namibia, though classified as an upper-middle-income country by the World Bank, is marked by stark economic inequality, and the youth are increasingly vocal about their discontent with the government’s inability to address these disparities.
Namibia’s ruling party, the South West Africa People’s Organization (SWAPO), has been in power since the country’s independence in 1990. SWAPO played a pivotal role in Namibia’s liberation from apartheid, but its dominance is now being challenged. The opposition, led by presidential contender Nandi-Ndaitwah, has gained momentum, particularly among the younger generation, which is seeking to break free from the decades-long control of SWAPO. Many observers are questioning whether SWAPO might face the same fate as other liberation parties in Southern Africa that have been rejected by voters this year.
The ongoing electoral issues in Namibia come at a time when neighboring Mozambique is also facing political turmoil, with the ruling Frelimo party accused of vote-rigging in October’s election, leading to violent protests and unrest.
As Namibia continues its electoral process, the nation’s future remains uncertain, with both the ruling party and the opposition vying for the trust of an increasingly frustrated electorate.
