Namibia elects first female President
Namibia’s ruling SWAPO party has been declared the winner of the November 27 elections, positioning Vice-President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah as the country’s first female president. The Electoral Commission announced that Nandi-Ndaitwah secured over 57% of the vote, while opposition leader Panduleni Itula of the Independent Patriots for Change (IPC) received 25.5%.
The election, however, has been marred by controversy. The IPC rejected the results, citing irregularities and logistical challenges, including ballot shortages and delays. Despite these issues, nearly 77% of registered voters participated. Observers raised concerns about deliberate disruptions, while the Electoral Commission acknowledged organizational failures.
Nandi-Ndaitwah, 72, campaigned on economic reforms to tackle Namibia’s high youth unemployment, which stands at 46%. A veteran SWAPO politician, she aims to attract investment through “economic diplomacy,” marking a historic moment for Namibia as she prepares to lead a country grappling with rising dissatisfaction among younger voters.
