Hertta-Maria Amutenja
Ahead of Namibia’s 2024 Presidential and National Assembly Elections in November, the Electoral Commission of Namibia (ECN) has emphasised non-partisan conduct and transparency among Regional and Constituency Heads during the training session of Supervisors of Registration this week.
With a stance against negligence, the Commission stressed the vital role of Supervisors of Registration during the electoral process.
“As you may be aware, the Commission has employed Regional Electoral Officers in all 14 regions of the country permanently, replacing the temporary Regional Coordinators and Assistant Regional Coordinators. The Supervisors of Registration will work with and report directly to Regional Electoral Officers as Heads of the regions where you will be deployed upon completion of your training,” said ECN Commissioner, Emmerentia Leonard.
Emphasising the paramount importance of conducting work in a non-partisan and transparent manner within the confines of the law.
“Section 65 of the Electoral Act provides for the Commission to make any appointments and may at any time withdraw such appointments in the event of negligence of duties. The penalties are outlined in Section 176 of the Act. You will be fully oriented about these penalties as part of this training,” Leonard stated.
Addressing the attendees, Leonard urged enthusiastic participation and reiterated the Commission’s expectation of 100 percent attendance at all training sessions.
Further stressing the zero-tolerance policy towards laxity, while highlighting the penalties outlined in the Electoral Act, underscoring the Commission’s commitment to upholding the integrity of the electoral process.
Also speaking at training sessions, Chief Electoral and Referenda Officer Peter Shaama, emphasised the significance of the training in integrating Regional Electoral Officers and potential Supervisors of Regions into cohesive teams dedicated to delivering a credible process for the 2024 General Registration of Voters.
The national elections are scheduled for 27 November 2024.
