In Namibia, the main opponent contests the presidential and parliamentary elections

A prolonged and controversial election

Namibia’s polls, originally scheduled for November 27, 2024 , have stretched over four days and been extended twice. The election process, intended to elect the president and members of parliament, has sparked tensions and criticism due to significant delays and organizational problems.

Despite the polling stations closing permanently on Saturday evening, some voters had to wait up to 12 hours to cast their ballots, an unprecedented event in this country often cited as a model of democracy and stability in southern Africa.

Panduleni Itula rejects the results

Panduleni Itula , the main opposition leader and runner-up in the 2019 presidential election, has said he will not recognise the results of the election. At a press conference in Windhoek, Itula said the elections could not be described as “free, fair and legitimate” , citing major flaws.

“Voting processes were deliberately delayed in more than 63% of polling stations,” he said, citing a report by observers from the Southern African Human Rights Lawyers’ Organisation.

He also announced his intention to challenge the results through legal channels, whatever the outcome, even if it was in his favour.

A democracy put to the test

Under the leadership of Swapo , in power since Namibia’s independence in 1990, the country is facing one of its most serious institutional crises. As the vote count was still delayed on Saturday evening, Itula urged President Nangolo Mbumba to convene his cabinet to assess the situation and decide on the next steps.

The human rights group reported “deliberate delays” in the delivery of ballots, heightening suspicions of manipulation. These events tarnish Namibia’s democratic image and highlight flaws in its electoral system.

Conclusion

The protest led by Panduleni Itula marks a turning point for Namibia, a country that until now prided itself on its political stability. The future of the democratic process seems uncertain, and the next decisions of national institutions will be crucial to restore the confidence of citizens and international observers.