Namibia Faces Closest Election Since Independence

Namibia is set to hold its most contested election since gaining independence in 1990, with the ruling SWAPO party facing significant challenges amid rising unemployment, corruption allegations, and inequality. If Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, the party's candidate and current vice-president, wins, she will become the country's first female president. Her main competitor, Panduleni Itula of the Independent Patriots for Change, previously garnered 29% of the vote in 2019 and poses a formidable threat. SWAPO's support has declined sharply, dropping from 87% in 2014 to 56% in the last election, reflecting growing public discontent. The outcome is expected to hinge on youth voter turnout, as young people, who suffer disproportionately from socio-economic issues, represent over half of the electorate. This election marks a potential turning point, as a SWAPO loss would signify the first change of power since independence.