Namibia has elected its first female President, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, marking a historic moment for the nation. The 72-year-old Vice-president and candidate of the ruling SWAPO party secured victory in the presidential election with 57.31% of the vote, the Electoral Commission announced on Tuesday, December 3.
Nandi-Ndaitwah, popularly referred to as “NNN,” will lead the mineral-rich nation, which has been under SWAPO’s governance since gaining independence 34 years ago. Her closest rival, Panduleni Itula, leader of the main opposition party, the Independent Patriots for Change (IPC), garnered 25.50% of the vote, according to official results.
The elections, held on November 27, were marred by logistical challenges, including ballot paper shortages and long delays at polling stations. Voting had to be extended twice, with some citizens reportedly waiting up to 12 hours to cast their ballots.
Itula, 67, has strongly rejected the election results, citing “multiple irregularities” during the chaotic voting process. He declared the elections neither free nor fair and has vowed to challenge the outcome through legal avenues. “We cannot describe these elections as free, fair, and legitimate,” he stated, indicating plans to seek an annulment of the results.
Despite the opposition’s concerns, Nandi-Ndaitwah’s election represents a milestone in Namibia’s political history, as she becomes the country’s first woman to hold the highest office. Her victory signals continuity for SWAPO’s leadership, but the controversy surrounding the election results underscores the challenges ahead for national unity and governance.