05 Dec 2024 | 09:52 AM UTC
Namibia: Protests likely nationwide through early December after general elections /update 3
Protests likely nationwide through early-December as opposition rejects results of election. SWAPO declared victors of Nov. 27 elections.
Opposition protests remains likely nationwide following the South West Africa People's Organisation's (SWAPO) victory in Namibia's Nov. 27 general elections. On Dec. 4, the Electoral Commission of Namibia (ECN) announced SWAPO's candidate, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, received 57.3 percent of the vote. Panduleni Itula from the Independent Patriots for Change (IPC) received 25.5 percent. SWAPO also won an absolute majority in parliament, with 51 of the 96 seats; the IPC received 20 seats. While the campaign and election day were largely peaceful, instances of long queues and logistical issues were reported, with some voting extended through Nov. 30. The lead opposition party, the Independent Patriots for Change (IPC), had earlier announced it would not recognize the outcome and would challenge the results in court.
While previous electoral periods in Namibia have remained peaceful and transparent, the opposition's rejection of the results will likely lead to increased tensions in the coming days. Rallies, protests, and political events will likely occur through early December, leading to increased localized security. Possible protest locations include party headquarters, government, or ECN offices. Travel disruptions are likely near protest events. Violence between opposing supporters or with security services, while unlikely, remains possible.
In the coming days, exercise caution near rallies or demonstration sites. Monitor local media for details concerning political gatherings, as organizers may not announce plans in advance. Follow instructions issued by local authorities. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation.
Namibia holds its general elections every five years. The President is elected directly through a two-round system, with the victor required to receive over 50 percent of the votes. The election has never required a second round. The bicameral legislature comprises 104 members of the National Assembly and 42 members of the National Council. 96 members of the former are elected through a proportional party-list system; the President nominates the remainder.
Similar to neighboring democracies, the ruling party inherited from the liberation movement has seen its popularity dwindle. The previous elections in 2019 saw late-president Geingob and SWAPO receive 56 and 65 percent of the votes, respectively. Namibia's struggling economy, growing youth discontent, and Geingob's passing in early 2024 were expected to further diminish its voter base. SWAPO may have benefitted from a highly divided opposition, with the PDM and IPC presently unlikely to agree on an alliance to unseat SWAPO.
