Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, the ruling SWAPO party candidate, has been declared the winner of Namibia’s presidential election, making history as the country’s first female president. The announcement on December 3, 2024, follows a contentious election marred by delays and allegations of irregularities.
The Electoral Commission of Namibia (ECN) reported that Nandi-Ndaitwah secured 57.31% of the vote, defeating her closest rival, Panduleni Itula of the Independent Patriots for Change (IPC), who garnered 25.5%. However, the IPC has rejected the results, citing a “multitude of irregularities” and pledging to challenge the outcome through legal channels.
The November 27 election, extended to November 30 due to logistical challenges, tested SWAPO’s decades-long dominance. The IPC accused the ECN of deliberate delays, including ballot shortages and equipment failures, which it claims frustrated voters and undermined the process.
Nandi-Ndaitwah, 72, a veteran SWAPO leader and the country’s vice president, campaigned on economic diplomacy and job creation, aiming to address Namibia’s high youth unemployment, estimated at 46%. Known for her gold-framed glasses and party-colored attire, she emphasized unity and reconciliation in her victory speech.
The ECN acknowledged organizational failures but urged Namibians to respect the results for the sake of national unity. SWAPO also maintained its majority in the National Assembly, securing 51 seats, though this marks a decline from its previous 63-seat dominance.
As Namibia faces economic challenges and shifting political dynamics, Nandi-Ndaitwah’s presidency represents both a historic milestone and a pivotal moment for the southern African nation.