Thousands of Namibians endured long waits to cast their votes on Wednesday in crucial presidential and legislative elections. Some voters queued for up to 12 hours, with polling stations remaining open well past the scheduled closing time due to widespread logistical issues. Despite the challenges, this election could mark a turning point for Namibia, potentially bringing the nation its first female leader as the ruling South West Africa People’s Organization (SWAPO) faces its toughest test in over three decades of dominance.
The elections were marred by technical problems, including malfunctions with voter identification tablets and a shortage of ballot papers at several polling stations. Many voters expressed disappointment and frustration, citing the Electoral Commission of Namibia’s (ECN) inability to manage the process effectively. In Windhoek, at the town hall polling station, voting was temporarily halted when ballot supplies ran out, leaving voters anxious and tired. When additional ballots finally arrived close to midnight, the delivery was met with applause from those still waiting in line. The last voter at the station cast their ballot more than four hours after the official closing time, with vote counting beginning shortly thereafter.
Throughout the day, voters complained about the delays, which they attributed to poor planning and execution. Many queued under the blazing sun, some bringing folding chairs and umbrellas to cope with the heat. Technical malfunctions with devices meant to verify voter identities added to the frustration, with issues ranging from overheating to dead batteries and untimely updates. Critics from all sides, including SWAPO, raised concerns about the ECN’s performance, prompting the commission to extend voting hours indefinitely to accommodate everyone still waiting to vote.
The opposition Independent Patriots for Change (IPC) accused the ECN of deliberate voter suppression, claiming that the mismanagement discouraged many citizens from casting their ballots. Christine Aochamus, a representative of the IPC, suggested that the delays were intentional efforts to frustrate voters, a sentiment shared by several people in line. However, the ECN defended its actions, stating that it was committed to ensuring every registered voter had the opportunity to participate.
Namibia’s youth and unemployed population have been particularly vocal in their demand for change. Although the country is rich in natural resources, including uranium and diamonds, the wealth has not translated into widespread economic benefits. Many citizens, especially young people, are frustrated by high unemployment rates and persistent inequality. Unemployment among 15- to 34-year-olds is estimated at 46%, nearly triple the national average. First-time voters, like 24-year-old environmental health student Sophia Varela, expressed hope that the elections could bring tangible change, including job creation and economic opportunities.
SWAPO, which has governed Namibia since independence in 1990, faces growing dissatisfaction from its traditional voter base. While the party is credited with leading the liberation struggle, some supporters believe it has strayed from its founding principles. Marvyn Pescha, a self-employed consultant, noted that although his family has a legacy tied to SWAPO’s fight for independence, he wants the party to face stronger competition. He criticised certain leaders within SWAPO for prioritising self-enrichment over effective governance and called for better policies to address the country’s challenges.
Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, SWAPO’s candidate and current vice president, cast her vote early in the day and urged Namibians to come out in large numbers. Her main rival, IPC leader Panduleni Itula, expressed confidence that he could disrupt SWAPO’s longstanding dominance. Itula, who secured 29% of the vote in 2019, believes he can build on that momentum to unseat the ruling party. With around 1.5 million people registered to vote in this election, analysts suggest the possibility of a second-round vote is higher than ever, a first in Namibia’s history.
The results of the first round are expected by Saturday, with a potential runoff to follow within 60 days if no candidate secures a majority. As the nation waits for the outcome, the stakes are high. Namibia’s leadership will need to address mounting frustrations over unemployment, economic inequality, and governance failures to regain the trust of its citizens. For many, this election represents a critical opportunity for transformation, with hopes pinned on a government that can deliver meaningful progress and restore faith in the democratic process.
