All preparations for the Swakopmund by-election are set and in place as the Electoral Commission of Namibia readies itself for today’s by-election. 

Swakopmund residents will be visiting 29 polling stations to choose the new Swakopmund constituency councillor from the eight candidates that are contesting the elections. 

The position was left vacant earlier this year after former councillor Ciske Smith-Howard was expelled from her position. 

She was on the ticket of the Independent Patriots for Change (IPC). 

Addressing the media Wednesday regarding the preparations for the by-elections, Elsie Nghikembua, the chairperson of ECN, said they trained 145 polling officials, who are separated into 29 teams and three mobile teams. 

“We have trained both officials and police officers to make sure that the elections are executed in a transparent manner,” said Nghikembua. 

Nghikembua urged election officials to treat voters with respect and dignity, and perform their functions diligently and effectively. 

“The commission will not condone mediocrity in the performance of your duties. Our mission is to ensure we conduct credible, peaceful and transparent elections,” she said. 

She further cautioned election officials to avoid being perceived or seen as taking sides during the voting process, which is scheduled for Friday. 

Seven political parties as well as an independent candidate are contesting the by-election. 

The political parties include IPC, Swapo, the Landless People’s Movement, the Popular Democratic Movement, Namibia Economic Freedom Fighters, United People’s Movement and the United Democratic Front. 

Willard Narib will contest as an independent candidate.