Tensions are rising in Namibia as the leading opposition presidential candidate Panduleni Itula announced at the weekend that his Independent Patriots for Change (IPC) party will not recognize the results of last week’s elections.
Itula cited widespread irregularities, logistical failures and allegations of electoral malpractice as the basis for his party’s stance.
The elections, initially scheduled for November 27, were marred by significant challenges, including long queues and reports of shortages of ballot papers at some polling stations.
In response to these issues, the Electoral Commission of Namibia (ECN) extended the voting period until November 30 to ensure that all eligible voters could participate.
“It is clear that the rule of law has been grossly violated,” Itula saidd, declaring the elections neither free nor fair.
He criticized the electoral process, stating that “Namibians deserve transparency and fairness,” and vowed to pursue legal avenues to nullify the election results.
The IPC, which aims to unseat the ruling South West Africa People’s Organisation (SWAPO), has expressed concerns over the integrity of the voting process.
Itula pointed out that voting centres operated under a “cloud of illegitimacy,” where votes were being counted while others were still being cast.
As the situation unfolds, all eyes are on the ECN to see how it would address the potential impasse.
SWAPO’s presidential candidate Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah is seeking to make history as Namibia’s first female president.
JN/APA