Stefanus Nashama
The Electoral Commission of Namibia (ECN) has strongly denied allegations made by the Landless People’s Movement (LPM) regarding the consistency of the new integrated election system.
ECN’s Chief Electoral and Referenda Officer, Peter Shaama, stressed that the 2024 integrated election system is both valid and transparent, asserting its functionality.
In a statement issued by LPM Representative, Ivan Skrywer, concerns were raised about inconsistencies in the new integrated election system, which allegedly involved local high school learners while sidelining ECN officials who played a crucial role in its design.
Skrywer also claimed that ECN officials were kept in the dark regarding the outsourcing of the contract, suggesting a lack of competence within the Commission to handle the new system.
However, ECN Chief Peter Shaama condemned these accusations, asserting that they lacked substance and were misleading.
According to Shaama, the Commission is in the final stages of introducing an enhanced Integrated Mobile Voter Registration System designed for use in electoral processes, including voter registration and polling.
He clarified that all information about the new integrated system had been communicated during various engagements with political parties, organizations, and associations, including the LPM.
The latest engagement took place on October 19, 2023, at the Mercure Hotel in Windhoek, where stakeholders were updated on the progress of the new system.
Shaama also informed stakeholders that a Mock Voter Registration exercise would be conducted to test the functionality of the enhanced system before its official rollout.
He explained that it is a standard procedure to ensure the readiness of equipment for deployment.
Additionally, Shaama emphasized that procurement guidelines required all equipment to undergo testing for general functionality before actual deployment.
He urged all stakeholders to avoid spreading unverified information and causing confusion among the public, emphasizing the importance of acting responsibly and with integrity.
He described the allegations as irresponsible and unreliable, stating that responsible leaders should verify information with the Commission before making public statements.
The ECN remains committed to ensuring the successful implementation of the new integrated election system while upholding transparency and accountability in the process.
