Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah Elected Namibia's First Female President

Namibia has elected its first female president, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, who secured over 57% of the votes, extending the SWAPO party's 34-year rule since independence from South Africa. However, the election was marred by significant logistical issues, including ballot shortages and long waiting times, prompting opposition parties, particularly the Independent Patriots for Change (IPC), to dispute the results and claim election irregularities. Nandi-Ndaitwah, previously the vice president, proclaimed that the nation voted for peace and stability, despite the challenges faced during the electoral process. The IPC, led by Panduleni Itula, which received approximately 26% of the votes, has vowed to challenge the election results in court. This election reflects growing discontent among youth over issues like unemployment and inequality, questioning SWAPO's long-standing dominance. Primate Elijah Ayodele had predicted this outcome, foreseeing both Nandi-Ndaitwah's victory and subsequent opposition frustrations.