Namibia’s Supreme Court dismissed the opposition’s appeal to annul the presidential election, affirming the legality of a two-day voting extension due to logistical issues. SWAPO party secured over 57% of the vote, while the IPC accepted the court’s decision. Concerns about the election’s legitimacy remain amid calls for unity among political factions.
On Friday, Namibia’s Supreme Court rejected the Independent Patriots for Change (IPC) party’s petition to invalidate the results of the 2024 presidential election, which had been extended due to logistical issues. This election saw the ruling SWAPO party, in power since Namibia’s independence in 1990, declared the victor. The IPC contended that President Nangolo Mbumba exceeded his constitutional authority by prolonging the voting period for certain areas.
The court concluded that the extension of the voting period was lawful, as Chief Justice Peter Shivute stated alterations recommended by the Electoral Commission of Namibia (ECN) aimed at accommodating voters who faced disenfranchisement. The Chief Justice emphasized that the extension constituted a continuation rather than a new election.
Upon learning the court’s ruling, IPC candidate Panduleni Itula expressed acceptance and called for unity, promoting the idea that continual blame undermines national development. He highlighted the need to recognize the legal authority granted by the constitution. The court also mandated both parties to share the legal costs, a decision regarded as a peace offer.
Political analyst Henning Melber remarked that while political stability was prioritized in the court’s decision, uncertainties regarding the election’s legitimacy remain. He noted that a comprehensive extension of voting could have alleviated suspicion over the electoral process.
The Supreme Court of Namibia has confirmed the legality of the 2024 presidential election, rejecting the opposition’s claims of electoral misconduct. While SWAPO’s victory is upheld, lingering uncertainties about the election’s fairness are acknowledged. Calls for national unity in the wake of the judgment signal an effort to move past political discord and establish a stable governance framework.
Original Source: www.jacarandafm.com
