Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah becomes Namibia’s First Female President Amid Controversy

Namibia has made history by electing its first female president, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, from the ruling South West Africa People’s Organisation (Swapo). She secured a decisive victory with over 57% of the vote, according to the electoral commission. Her closest competitor, Panduleni Itula, managed 26%.

The election, however, was marred by logistical delays and allegations of malpractice. Polling had to be extended by three days in some areas, prompting Itula and his party to reject the outcome.

The opposition further escalated tensions by boycotting the results announcement held in the capital, Windhoek, on Tuesday.

Despite the disputes, Nandi-Ndaitwah struck a tone of unity, declaring that “the Namibian nation has voted for peace and stability.”

Her leadership represents continuity for Swapo, which has governed the southern African nation since it gained independence in 1990.

Currently serving as vice-president, Nandi-Ndaitwah brings extensive experience to the presidency, having held key government roles over the past 25 years.

Known as a stalwart of the ruling party, she is widely regarded as a trusted and capable leader.

Swapo’s enduring dominance and Nandi-Ndaitwah’s historic victory signal both change and continuity in Namibia’s political landscape.

However, the fallout from the opposition’s rejection of the results could pose challenges to the nation’s celebrated stability.