Namibia has made history by electing Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah as its first female president, following the announcement of official results by the Electoral Commission on Tuesday. Nandi-Ndaitwah, 72, a seasoned politician from the ruling South West Africa People’s Organization (SWAPO) party, garnered approximately 57% of the votes, solidifying her place as a transformative figure in the country’s political history.
Nandi-Ndaitwah, who previously served as Namibia’s vice president and foreign minister, expressed deep gratitude for the support she received. In her acceptance speech, she emphasized the significance of her victory, saying, “The Namibian nation has voted for peace and stability. I am humbled by the trust you have placed in me.” Her election represents a monumental milestone in Namibia’s political evolution, continuing SWAPO’s uninterrupted rule since the country gained independence from apartheid South Africa in 1990.
The election results also highlighted the political landscape’s dynamics, with Panduleni Itula of the Independent Patriots for Change (IPC) party emerging as Nandi-Ndaitwah’s closest rival. Itula secured approximately 26% of the votes, cementing IPC’s position as a major opposition force. Despite her victory, the IPC has announced plans to challenge the election results in court, alleging widespread flaws in the electoral process.
The November 27 elections were not without challenges. Technical issues and a shortage of ballot papers caused delays in voting and the release of results. These logistical problems led to extended voting periods in certain regions, casting a shadow over the otherwise historic event.
In addition to the presidential election, Namibians also voted for members of the National Assembly. SWAPO maintained its dominance, winning 51 of the 96 elected seats. However, the IPC made significant inroads, securing 20 seats to become the official opposition party.
Political analysts had earlier speculated that SWAPO might struggle to retain its grip on power due to growing public dissatisfaction over issues such as high unemployment and inequality. Despite this, the party’s enduring support in rural areas and among older voters, who value SWAPO’s role in Namibia’s liberation struggle, played a crucial role in securing the victory.
Analyst Rakkel Andreas attributed Nandi-Ndaitwah’s success to her ability to unite different factions within SWAPO and maintain a reputation for integrity. Unlike some of her party colleagues, she has avoided being embroiled in corruption allegations, which have plagued SWAPO in recent years.
Andreas described her as a seasoned leader, stating, “She is a stateswoman. She has been in some form of leadership since we gained independence. She understands the system.”
Nandi-Ndaitwah’s election not only shatters a glass ceiling in Namibia but also signals a continuation of SWAPO’s dominance while offering a potential opportunity to address pressing issues such as economic inequality and unemployment. Her leadership is expected to shape Namibia’s future, with a focus on unity and stability amidst evolving political and social challenges.
