Nandi-Ndaitwah Rejects Claims of Zimbabwe’s Interference in Namibian Elections

Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, Namibia’s first female President-elect, has denied allegations of Zimbabwean interference in the recent elections, labeled as unfounded by opposition parties. These groups raised concerns without substantial proof, linking ballot shortages to possible foreign manipulation. Nandi-Ndaitwah urged investigations into the claims, reaffirming her belief in the integrity of the electoral process despite operational challenges faced during the polls.

Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, Namibia’s first female President-elect, has categorically rejected accusations regarding Zimbabwe’s interference in the nation’s recent presidential and National Assembly elections. Allegations were presented by five opposition groups, including the Independent Patriots for Change and the Landless People’s Movement, suggesting that Zimbabwe’s ruling party, Zanu-PF, may have impacted the election results, which were ultimately won by the ruling party Swapo. Despite the absence of substantial evidence, opposition leaders expressed apprehensions regarding Zanu-PF’s potential role in the electoral process.

For instance, Ivan Skrywer, leader of the Landless People’s Movement, drew parallels between the inadequate supply of ballot papers in Namibia and similar tactics purportedly employed by Zanu-PF in past Zimbabwean elections, stating, “If we look at the election results in Zimbabwe last year, this was the tactic used on day one.” Additionally, IPC spokesperson Imms Nashinge raised concerns over a social media acknowledgment by Zimbabwean presidential spokesperson George Charamba, who seemingly declared Swapo’s electoral victory ahead of official announcements, questioning, “How do they know? Is Namibia a province of Zimbabwe? Since when has Zimbabwe had so much interest in our affairs?”

In response, Nandi-Ndaitwah labeled the allegations as unfounded and indicative of a conspiracy aimed at discrediting her party, Swapo. During her remarks in Windhoek, she called upon investigative journalists to scrutinize the matter further, declaring, “Those saying it, they know it’s not true, but they are saying it deliberately to confuse our people.”

The elections experienced significant operational challenges, namely ballot shortages and technical failures, which led to prolonged waiting times for voters. Critics attributed these issues to the Electoral Commission’s insufficient preparations, with some contesting the legality of extending voting hours by two days. Notably, both Zanu-PF and Swapo representatives dismissed the allegations of misconduct, with Zanu-PF Secretary-General Obert Mpofu admonishing the claims as a sign of “primitive thinking.”

As the electoral aftermath unfolds, the dialogue surrounding foreign interference and logistical inadequacies continues to shape the political landscape in Namibia.

The recent elections in Namibia have been marred by controversy, including claims of logistical issues like ballot paper shortages and prolonged queues, which opposition groups argue led to suppressed voter turnout. This backdrop sets the stage for the allegations against Zimbabwe, suggesting a broader theme of political manipulation within the southern African region. The political tension reflects longstanding relations and rivalries among regional parties, particularly involving issues of legitimacy and electoral transparency.

In summary, the allegations that Zimbabwe interfered in Namibia’s elections have been firmly dismissed by President-elect Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, who asserts that these claims originate from an intent to undermine the ruling party, Swapo. This incident draws attention to the intricate dynamics of regional politics, especially regarding electoral integrity and the challenges faced during the voting process. Furthermore, both Zimbabwe and Swapo leaders maintain that such accusations are unfounded, framing them as attempts to distract from legitimate electoral issues.

Original Source: newscentral.africa