Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah of Swapo is set to become Namibia’s first female president with over 58% of votes counted. However, her rival, Panduleni Itula, disputes the results citing electoral malpractice. Swapo has governed Namibia since independence in 1990, and Nandi-Ndaitwah’s victory would position her as a key figure in African female leadership.
Namibia is poised to elect its first female president, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, from the ruling South West Africa People’s Organisation (Swapo). With over 90% of the votes from the recent elections counted, she has garnered more than 58%, while her closest competitor, Panduleni Itula, received approximately 25% of the votes.
Despite these results, Itula’s party has declared that they will not recognize the outcomes due to logistical issues and allegations of electoral malpractice, which resulted in a three-day extension of polling in certain areas. Swapo has held power in Namibia since its independence in 1990, after leading the anti-apartheid struggle.
There were concerns that Swapo might experience a decline similar to other liberation parties in the region. For instance, South Africa’s ANC lost its majority earlier this year and the Botswana Democratic Party was ousted after nearly sixty years in power. Nandi-Ndaitwah, currently the vice-president, has extensive experience in government, having served for 25 years.
If victorious, she will join a small group of female presidents in Africa, alongside Tanzania’s Samia Suluhu Hassan. To avoid a runoff election, a candidate must secure over 50% of the votes. Itula, who is perceived as a more charismatic leader, previously reduced Swapo’s vote share in the 2019 elections.
The Independent Patriots for Change (IPC) have stated that they will seek legal recourse regarding the election results and have urged those who encountered voting issues to report to law enforcement.
In conclusion, Namibia is on the brink of electing its first female president, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, who has secured over half of the votes despite allegations of electoral malpractice raised by her opponent. The electoral dynamics reflect historical challenges for Swapo amidst emerging political competition. Nandi-Ndaitwah’s potential presidency marks a significant milestone for Namibia, contributing to the representation of women in African political leadership.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
