Windhoek [Namibia]: Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has made history by becoming Namibia’s first female president, securing 57% of the vote in the national election, according to official results released by the country’s electoral commission. The announcement, reported by Al Jazeera, marks a significant milestone for the 72-year-old leader and the ruling South West Africa People’s Organisation (SWAPO) party.
After being declared president-elect, Nandi-Ndaitwah said:
“The Namibian nation has voted for peace and stability.”
Her victory solidifies SWAPO’s 34-year rule since Namibia gained independence from apartheid South Africa in 1990. However, the results have sparked controversy, with opposition parties rejecting the outcome and citing numerous technical issues during the election process.
Opposition Reactions
Critics pointed to ballot paper shortages and delays that extended voting until Saturday, with some voters reportedly waiting up to 12 hours before abandoning the polls. Opposition parties claim the extension was illegal and have vowed to challenge the results in court.
Panduleni Itula, the main opposition candidate from the Independent Patriots for Change (IPC), garnered 25.5% of the vote and condemned the election as unfair. He stated:
“The rule of law has been grossly violated, and we cannot call these elections by any means or measure as free, fair, and legitimate.”
A Historic Career
Nandi-Ndaitwah’s election caps a long career in Namibian politics. She began her political journey in the 1970s as part of Namibia’s underground independence movement. After returning from the UK, she joined parliament in 1990, the year Namibia gained independence. Over the years, she has held various ministerial roles and was appointed vice president in February 2023 following the death of President Hage Geingob.
Challenges Ahead
While SWAPO has remained in power for decades, it faces growing dissatisfaction, particularly among Namibia’s youth, due to high unemployment and persistent inequality. Nandi-Ndaitwah’s leadership will be tested as she addresses these pressing issues.