Namibia’s Supreme Court Rejects Opposition Challenge to Election Results

Namibia’s Supreme Court dismissed an election challenge from opposition parties, affirming the legitimacy of the presidential election that led to Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah’s upcoming inauguration. Chief Justice Peter Shivute ruled that the extension of voting was lawful, allowing SWAPO to maintain its ruling position in the government.

On Friday, Namibia’s Supreme Court dismissed the election challenge brought forth by opposition parties regarding the integrity of last year’s presidential election. This decision enables Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah of the ruling SWAPO party to assume office next month. SWAPO, which has governed Namibia for over three decades, won both the presidential and parliamentary elections held in November.

Opposition factions contended that the election process had significant flaws, alleging that the extension of voting over several days raised concerns about its validity. Chief Justice Peter Shivute deemed the decision to extend voting as lawful and ruled against the challenge presented by the Independent Patriots for Change (IPC), the runner-up in the elections, along with the Landless People’s Movement.

Chief Justice Shivute noted, “Their challenge to the outcome for the 2024 presidential election … fails.” IPC leader Panduleni Itula affirmed his party’s respect for the court’s ruling, stating that they would not pursue protests or demonstrations. Nandi-Ndaitwah is set to be inaugurated as Namibia’s first female president on March 21.

In summary, the Supreme Court of Namibia has upheld the results of the presidential election, allowing Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah to take the presidency. The court’s ruling addressed the opposition’s claims regarding election irregularities, affirming the legality of the electoral process. The decision marks a continuation of SWAPO’s longstanding governance in Namibia.

Original Source: www.usnews.com