Windhoek, Namibia – Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has made history by becoming Namibia’s first female president, a landmark achievement that is being hailed as a major step forward for gender equality in the country and by extension Africa. Nandi-Ndaitwah represented the South West Africa People’s Organisation (SWAPO), and secured a resounding victory. Her win maintained the party’s 34-year long-standing dominance in Namibia’s political landscape since its independence in 1990.
Notably, Nandi-Ndaitwah has been a passionate advocate for women’s empowerment and national unity. She also boasts of decades of experience in public service. In her victory speech, she expressed her deep appreciation for the support of the Namibian people, particularly women and girls, and emphasized the importance of inclusive leadership.
“This victory is not just mine; it belongs to every Namibian, especially the women and girls who dared to dream of a future where they, too, can lead,” stated Nandi-Ndaitwah.
Meanwhile, bouts of tension were experienced in certain parts of the country. Tensions flared in certain regions due to significant logistical failures reported by the Electoral Commission of Namibia (ECN). Shortages of ballot papers and malfunctioning electronic tablets caused delays, leaving many voters standing in long queues for hours. These issues sparked complaints and protests, leading to an extension of voting hours in some areas.
Opposition candidate Panduleni Itula, from the Independent Patriots for Change (IPC), raised concerns over alleged electoral malpractice, claiming that the logistical failures were indicative of irregularities.
In a statement released after the election, Itula accused the Electoral Commission of Namibia (ECN) of failing to address logistical challenges, such as the extension of voting in several locations, which he claimed were indicative of irregularities.
Despite these accusations, the ECN has upheld the integrity of the electoral process, even though some international observers noted some logistical hurdles but found no evidence of widespread electoral fraud.
Namibia embarks on a new era under the leadership of President Nandi-Ndaitwah. Her presidency marks a historic moment, presenting a unique opportunity to address critical challenges such as economic revitalization, job creation, and the adverse effects of climate change. Nandi-Ndaitwah’s administration is poised to prioritize gender equality, poverty reduction, and the creation of a more equitable and prosperous future for all Namibians.
Nandi-Ndaitwah’s election as Namibia’s first female president is a groundbreaking moment not just for the country, but for the African continent as a whole, and offers a powerful example of what can be achieved when women are given the opportunity to lead at the highest levels of government.