Namibia is set for a historic moment as Vice President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, representing the ruling SWAPO party, leads the presidential election with 54% of votes tallied from nearly two-thirds of constituencies. If successful, she will become Namibia’s first woman president, continuing SWAPO’s 34-year reign over the mineral-rich nation.
As of early Tuesday, with 66% of the vote counted, Nandi-Ndaitwah holds a commanding lead over her main rival, Panduleni Itula of the Independent Patriots for Change (IPC), who has garnered 28% of votes.
While the results are incomplete, Nandi-Ndaitwah may face a runoff if she does not secure over 50% of the total vote once counting concludes.
The IPC leader has rejected the election process, citing widespread irregularities, including logistical issues that forced the November 27 vote to be extended twice.
“The rule of law has been grossly violated and we cannot call these elections by any means or measure as free, fair and legitimate,” Itula stated, adding that his party will not recognize the results.
Long queues of up to 12 hours and a ballot paper shortage were reported on election day, leading some voters to abandon polling stations.
SWAPO, which led Namibia to independence from apartheid South Africa in 1990, faces growing criticism over high youth unemployment and persistent social inequalities. Discontent among younger voters could signal a waning dominance for the party, even as it appears likely to retain the presidency.
At 72 years old, Nandi-Ndaitwah stands on the brink of making history as Namibia’s first female president. Her victory would reinforce SWAPO’s legacy, but the party will need to address widespread frustrations to maintain its grip on the electorate.
With 79 of 121 constituencies reported and voter turnout at 73%, the final tally will determine whether Nandi-Ndaitwah clinches a first-round win or faces a potentially contentious runoff.
