Namibia has made history by electing its first-ever female president. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah secured 57% of the vote, according to the country’s electoral commission. Her victory reinforces the South West Africa People’s Organisation (SWAPO) party’s 34-year dominance since Namibia gained independence from apartheid South Africa in 1990.
The 72-year-old’s decisive victory proved wrong predictions that she would have to enter a run-off race. Polls suggested younger Namibians had become disillusioned with SWAPO, despite the party’s historical significance and past achievements in the fight against apartheid. There were concerns that the election results might mirror those of neighbouring South Africa, where the African National Congress lost its majority; and those in Botswana, whose long-standing ruling party was defeated.
Opposition parties have contested the results, citing technical issues such as a shortage of ballot papers, which prompted election officials to extend voting hours. Nandi-Ndaitwah’s chief rival, Panduleni Itula from the Independent Patriots for Change party, finished second – with approximately 25.5% of the vote. His rising popularity can be traced back to the 2019 elections, when he managed win over swathers of SWAPO supporters.
Nandi-Ndaitwah has been a member of SWAPO since the 1970s, during the struggle for independence, and has held various senior positions within the party. In February, she was promoted from foreign minister to vice president following the death of President Hage Geingob in office. She’s built a reputation as a steady leader and experienced diplomat, not associated with the corruption scandals that have affected other SWAPO members.
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