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Namibian voters in good spirits despite pre-election woes, swirling disinformation

Namibian voters in good spirits despite pre-election woes, swirling disinformation
Voters endured long queues and scorching heat at polling stations across Namibia. (Photo: Ernst Calitz)
Ernst Calitz
By Ernst Calitz
27 Nov 2024
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Thousands of Namibians have shown up to the polls on Wednesday morning.

Namibia’s election day has started relatively smoothly, despite a turbulent pre-election period. 

Some polling stations across the country have experienced delays, only opening their doors almost an hour after the initial scheduled time, leaving voters frustrated. 

At one of those stations, “veteran voter” Vaanda Kauhonina said people are already feeling discouraged and want to go home, because of the delays and long queues in the almost 30-degree heat.

Other voters, such as Syluvia Haiduwa, in the same queue, said they had expected the delays. “There’s definitely a natural frustration that comes with the delays, but it’s nothing too serious,” she added. 

Despite the long queues, Haiduwa said she appreciates the camaraderie that comes with waiting in the long queues while everyone “enjoys democracy”. 

Namibia Voters endure long queues and scorching heat at polling stations across Namibia. (Photo: Ernst Calitz)


Better campaigning


The run-up to the election featured an abundance of disinformation, but despite this voters are saying it has been one of the best campaigning seasons for the country. 

Read more: Opposition leader questions SADC observer mission ahead of crucial Namibian poll

“There wasn’t much initiative or creativity from the parties in previous elections, but this year you can really tell that it’s election season. Voter education has been great and there are posters everywhere,” Haiduwa said.

Voting at Katatura State Hospital, Elsabe Tjikongo also expressed excitement about the polls. Despite the disinformation before the elections “there’s this whole hype – everyone is really excited for change and to see where all of this goes”.

The Electoral Commission of Namibia has made provisions for pensioners, people with disabilities and expectant mothers to skip the long queues. 

Tjikongo, who is pregnant, says this is a welcome initiative. “I had to first finish some work, and I couldn’t wait to get here. Luckily I had the privilege of skipping the queue!”

Voters were upbeat about the elections on Wednesday. (Photo: Ernst Calitz)



Voters in long queues try to stay out of the sun. (Photo: Ernst Calitz)


Civic duty


Prime Minister Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila has urged all Namibians to vote and remain patient as queues remain long. 

Many other prominent Namibian politicians cast their votes throughout the morning. Speaking to reporters before voting, Independent Patriots for Change leader Panduleni Itula reminded voters of the struggles that led to Namibia’s ability to hold free elections, and that this democratic right is a legacy that must be protected. 

Abdul Sillah, a long-time voter, said he appreciated seeing many Namibians being eager to vote, setting up chairs and joining queues well before polls opened. 

First-time voter Christiaan Prinsloo said it’s important to participate in Namibia’s democracy, even if you don’t have particularly strong feelings about any party or candidate. 

“It’s important, especially if you want to be able to complain about how things are going, or not going. I know a lot of people who didn’t register to vote, so I’m not going to listen to their opinions about such things,” Prinsloo added. DM

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