Uakutura Kambaekua 

OPUWO – Seventeen trial-awaiting inmates at the Opuwo holding cells expressed satisfaction with the voting process on Wednesday, describing it as a significant democratic step.

In a conversation with Nampa right after he cast his vote in the 8th Presidential and National Assembly elections, inmate Nico Rebebe said the voting process went smoothly, and he encouraged citizens to participate actively in the democratic process by casting their votes.

Still in his prime, Rebebe urged other young people to take advantage of their democratic rights, emphasising that this is the only means through which their concerns can be acknowledged and addressed.

“From a youth perspective, we are going through a lot because of high unemployment and poverty. I think it is time we learnt what politics is; people go through a lot in this country, so your vote does count,” he said.

Moreover, he urged the electorate to vote for candidates they believe will bring much-needed change. Another inmate, Forester Jaua, echoed Rebebe’s sentiments, saying the voting process was efficient and quick. He firmly believes inmates have rights, including the right to participate in elections.

“As inmates, we deserve to have our voices heard, and I encourage others to also participate and make their voices heard,” Jaua said.

He added that true change can only be achieved through voting, urging those who had not yet cast their votes to do so respectfully and democratically.

According to Article 17 of the Namibian Constitution, all citizens above 18 years have the right to engage in public affairs, whether by holding public office, or by voting for their representatives in government. 

This Article also grants the right to vote to both remand prisoners and those serving jail sentences.

Namibian Police Force deputy commissioner in the Kunene region Obandja Ruhozu told Nampa the process to have inmates cast their votes is being carried out carefully to ensure safety.

“They are being released in groups of five, as a safety measure. We need to make sure there is no disturbance and, of course, no escapes,” he said.

-Nampa