Political parties have called for the Electoral Commission of Namibia (ECN) to stop ongoing voting and vote- counting after polling stations remained open beyond the official closing time of 21h00 on Wednesday.

ECN Chief Electoral and Referenda Officer, Peter Shaama on Wednesday issued a directive for polling stations to remain open due to ballot paper shortages in some constituencies. The directive allowed stations to borrow ballot papers and accommodate eligible voters in queues.

In a media briefing at the ECN headquarters yesterday, Independent Patriots for Change (IPC) general secretary Christine !Aochamus, speaking on behalf of several political parties, criticised the ECN’s handling of the election process. 

She claimed that polling stations were inconsistently instructed, with some releasing results, others continuing to allow voting, and some lacking ballot papers altogether.

The political parties as a collective expressed dissatisfaction with the ECN’s communication, accusing the ECN of disrespect and bias.

“Where are the 400 000 additional ballot papers the ECN claimed to have printed? Why aren’t they speaking to us? This disorganisation is unacceptable,” she said.

The parties demanded the ECN halt all voting and vote-counting immediately and provide a clear explanation of the situation. 

They issued an ultimatum for a response by 15h00 yesterday, threatening further action if no resolution is provided.
Parties emphasised the importance of protecting Namibia’s democracy, urging citizens denied the opportunity to vote, to come forward. They accused the ECN of undermining public trust and failing its mandate, despite having five years to prepare for the elections.

“We cannot allow the ECN to drag our country’s reputation into the mud. Namibians deserve a fair and transparent election,” !Aochamus said.

Further updates are expected, as political parties meet to decide on their course of action. -Nampa