SWAPO Party Declared Winner in Namibia's Presidential Election, Vice President Nandi-Ndaitwah Set to Become First Female President

 

Namibia’s ruling party, SWAPO, has emerged victorious in the country's recent presidential election, paving the way for Vice-President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah to become the nation’s first female president. The Electoral Commission of Namibia (ECN) announced on Tuesday that Nandi-Ndaitwah secured over 57 percent of the vote, while her main rival, Panduleni Itula of the opposition Independent Patriots for Change (IPC), garnered 25.5 percent.

Nandi-Ndaitwah’s win marks a continuation of SWAPO’s dominance since Namibia gained independence in 1990. However, the election has been marred by controversy. The IPC has rejected the results, citing numerous alleged irregularities in the voting process. Itula, 67, announced on November 30 that his party would not recognize the outcome, pledging to challenge the election results through the country’s electoral procedures.

The November 27 election faced significant logistical challenges, including shortages of ballot papers and overheating electronic devices used for voter registration, which led to long delays at polling stations. Some voters abandoned the process after waiting for up to 12 hours. While the ECN admitted to organizational failures, it reported that nearly 77 percent of registered voters cast their ballots. Observers from a southern African human rights group suggested that the delays were widespread and possibly deliberate.

This election comes at a critical time for SWAPO, as other liberation-era parties in the region, such as South Africa’s African National Congress and Botswana’s Democratic Party, have seen declining support. Namibia, a major exporter of uranium and diamonds, faces persistent challenges, including high youth unemployment, which stands at 46 percent, nearly three times the national average.

Nandi-Ndaitwah, 72, a longtime SWAPO member and veteran politician, campaigned on a platform of “economic diplomacy” and promises to attract investment and create jobs. Recognized for her gold-framed glasses and her association with the blue, red, and green colors of SWAPO and the national flag, Nandi-Ndaitwah emphasized her extensive experience and wisdom during her campaign. As the daughter of an Anglican pastor and a staunch party member, her victory represents a historic moment for Namibia, marking both a personal achievement and a test of SWAPO’s ability to retain influence amid growing discontent among younger voters.