Namibia is on the cusp of a historic moment with Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, the current vice-president and stalwart of the governing South West Africa People’s Organisation (Swapo), poised to become the country’s first female president. Her victory is seen as crucial for maintaining stability and continuity in the country.
Namibia is on the cusp of a historic moment with Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, the current vice-president and stalwart of the governing South West Africa People’s Organisation (Swapo), poised to become the country’s first female president. With over 90% of votes from last week’s disputed election counted, she has secured more than 58% of the vote share.
The electoral commission faced logistical problems and a three-day extension to polling in some areas, which led Panduleni Itula, Nandi-Ndaitwah’s closest rival, to dispute the results. Itula alleged electoral malpractice and stated that his party would not recognize the outcome.
Swapo has been the dominant force in Namibia since its independence from apartheid South Africa in 1990. The party’s long tenure in power has raised questions about its ability to adapt to changing political landscapes, similar to other liberation parties in the region that have lost their grip on power.
Nandi-Ndaitwah would join an exclusive club if she becomes the first female president of Namibia, a trusted leader with over a quarter-century of service in high government offices. Her victory is seen as crucial for maintaining stability and continuity in the country.
Tanzania’s Samia Suluhu Hassan remains Africa’s only female president, making Nandi-Ndaitwah’s potential win significant on the continent. The outcome of this election has implications not just for Namibia but also for the broader African political landscape.
