Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, the vice president of Namibia’s ruling SWAPO party, has made history as the country’s first female president. The Electoral Commission of Namibia announced her victory on Tuesday, marking a milestone for gender equality in Namibian politics and extending SWAPO’s 34-year hold on power since Namibia’s independence from apartheid South Africa in 1990.
Nandi-Ndaitwah, 72, won the presidency with approximately 57% of valid votes, surpassing the required 50% threshold. Her closest competitor, Panduleni Itula of the Independent Patriots for Change (IPC) party, garnered about 26% of the votes.
“The Namibian nation has voted for peace and stability,” said Nandi-Ndaitwah after being declared president-elect.
Having joined SWAPO in the 1960s during the liberation struggle, Nandi-Ndaitwah has held numerous senior positions, including foreign minister in the post-independence era. Her leadership is seen as a unifying force within SWAPO, especially during a time when the party has faced growing criticism over unemployment and economic inequality.
In addition to the presidential race, Namibians voted for the National Assembly. SWAPO maintained its majority, winning 51 of the 96 elected seats, while the IPC secured 20 seats, becoming the official opposition.
However, the election was not without controversy. The IPC has announced plans to challenge the results in court, citing “deeply flawed” electoral processes. The vote on November 27 was marred by technical issues and ballot paper shortages, which delayed results as voting was extended in some areas.
Political analysts noted that Nandi-Ndaitwah’s victory was not guaranteed. Frustration over economic challenges and allegations of corruption within SWAPO created uncertainty about the party’s dominance. However, Nandi-Ndaitwah’s clean record and ability to bridge internal divisions were seen as key factors in her success.
“She is a stateswoman. She has been in some form of leadership since we gained independence,” said political analyst Rakkel Andreas. “She understands the system.”
As Namibia’s first female president, Nandi-Ndaitwah’s leadership represents a historic turning point for the nation. However, she faces the challenge of addressing the economic grievances that have fueled political discontent.
The SWAPO leader will officially take office in March 2025, beginning a new chapter in Namibia’s post-independence history.
