Hertta-Maria Amutenja
The current voter registration process has elicited mixed reactions across various regions.
While some areas report smooth operations, others are experiencing significant delays.
Otjozondjupa governor, James Uerikua has noted the slow pace of the voter registration process.
“We have noticed that the process is slow. However, registration is ongoing, and we are excited to see many youths come out to register. We are urging more young people to register as voters,” said Uerikua.
In Grootfontein, the municipality’s acting chief executive officer Indileni Lungameni also described the process as very slow, with long lines and technical glitches being common issues.
“Registration is moving at a very slow pace. They claim the system is very slow. One person I spoke to said they got to the registration point at 9 am but only finished after 1 pm,” Lungameni reported.
During the first week of registration, Omaheke Regional Governor Pio Nganate reported initial logistical issues, but he later noted their resolution.
“The first week went slow in terms of logistics and hiccups. Now it’s better, and there are machines on standby in case of any breakdown. Regionally, we register about 900 people per day. Our aim is to have at least 40 000 eligible voters by the end of the registration period,” Nganate said.
In contrast, Okahao Councillor Leonard Shikulo reported positive developments in his area.
“Registration has been going very well, and the turnout looks good. We are expecting a huge turnout in the coming weeks,” Shikulo said.
Last week, the Electoral Commission of Namibia (ECN) announced the registration of a total of 187 171 Namibians eligible to vote, both inside the country and abroad. This number represents an average of 31 195 voters per day over a period of six days.
The announcement was made by the ECN’s Chief Electoral and Referenda Officer, Peter Shaama.
The general registration of voters commenced on 3 June and will continue until 1 August.
Shaama said that there will be no additional registration date.
He advised eligible voters to register before the deadline.
