Namibia’s ruling SWAPO party has retained power after last week’s contested elections, ushering in Vice President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah as the country’s first female president.

The victory came on the heels of disputes and logistical issues during the extended voting period, which ended November 30.

Nandi-Ndaitwah secured 57% of the votes, while the main opposition Independent Patriots for Change, IPC, candidate Panduleni Itula garnered 25.5%, according to the Electoral Commission of Namibia, ECN. Despite the historic victory for the 72-year-old leader, IPC has rejected the results, citing irregularities and delays.

The election, initially scheduled for one day, was extended after ballot shortages and overheating registration tablets caused significant delays. Voters in some areas waited for up to 12 hours, prompting allegations from IPC and election monitors that these issues were deliberate attempts to disenfranchise citizens.

The ECN admitted to organizational lapses but urged the nation to respect the results. ECN chairperson Elsie Nghikembua called for unity, stating: “Democracy calls upon us to unite once the votes have been counted.”

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IPC leader Itula reiterated his party’s stance, refusing to recognize the outcome and vowing to challenge the results through legal channels. “We shall not be robbed nor denied our democratic right to choose our leaders,” he said.

A SWAPO veteran, Nandi-Ndaitwah campaigned on economic diplomacy, promising job creation through increased investments. Known for her conservative values and signature party-colored outfits, she takes office amid growing frustrations among Namibia’s youth over unemployment, which stands at 46% among 15-34-year-olds.

The elections tested SWAPO’s 34-year dominance as regional liberation-era movements face waning support. While SWAPO retained 51 national assembly seats, it saw a drop from its previous 63, reflecting growing dissatisfaction.

Nandi-Ndaitwah’s presidency marks a historic milestone for Namibia and Africa, positioning her among the continent’s few female leaders. However, she faces the dual challenge of addressing economic disparities and bridging the nation’s political divide.

Credible News.ng