Namibia’s Supreme Court dismissed an opposition challenge to the 2023 presidential election. The ruling affirms Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah’s upcoming inauguration as the country’s first female president. Opposition parties alleged electoral flaws, but the court upheld the legality of the voting extension.

Namibia’s Supreme Court has dismissed a legal challenge to the results of the 2023 presidential election, which was initiated by opposition parties. The ruling allows Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah of the ruling SWAPO party to assume office as Namibia’s first female president next month. SWAPO, which has governed Namibia for over 30 years, secured both the presidential and parliamentary elections held in November.

The opposition groups, led by the Independent Patriots for Change (IPC) and supported by the Landless People’s Movement, argued that the electoral process was marred by flaws, including an extended voting period. Chief Justice Peter Shivute ruled that the voting extension was lawful and upheld the election results. He stated, “Their challenge to the outcome for the 2024 presidential election … fails.”

In response to the Supreme Court’s decision, IPC leader Panduleni Itula announced that his party would respect the verdict and not pursue public protests against the ruling. With this development, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah is set to be inaugurated as the country’s first female president on March 21, marking a significant milestone in Namibia’s political landscape.

In summary, the Supreme Court of Namibia dismissed the challenges posed by opposition parties regarding the 2023 presidential election, confirming the legitimacy of the process and paving the way for Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah’s inauguration as the first female president. The ruling underscores the continued dominance of the SWAPO party in Namibian politics despite opposition claims of electoral irregularities.

Original Source: www.usnews.com