ECN starts training of polling officers in northern Namibia

The Electoral Commission of Namibia (ECN) commenced its training of 63 polling officers who are to be stationed in the northern regions of Oshana, Ohangwena, Oshikoto and Omusati last week.

The ECN has recruited more than 16 000 polling officers countrywide for the presidential and National Assembly elections on 27 November.

The ECN’s deputy director of administration, Thomas Shapi, said during the opening of the training session that the commission plans to train the polling officials a few weeks before the election date and also a day before the election in an effort to make sure that they are thoroughly trained to avoid making mistakes.

“You have to be ready both mentally, emotionally and physically. Avoid committing errors because we are being monitored all over the world and committing one small mistake can easily lead to chaos and disrupt the whole voting process,” he said.

He said seagoing personnel, registered voters in the diaspora and members of the security cluster on duty on 27 November will cast their votes on 13 November, which is classified as a special voting day.

Shaama added that about 4 675 polling stations will be set up across Namibia to enable all the registered voters to cast their votes on 27 November.

Oshana regional electoral officer Amon Haimbangu urged the polling officials to take the training seriously and maintain good standards at all times.

“You coming here should not just be seen as a job opportunity. Of course, you are going to work and you will be compensated for your effort. Your focus should not be on the remuneration, your focus should be on the chance you are accorded now. We want to deliver our mandate, the nation’s eyes are on us now,” he said.

He further urged the officials to maintain a good image, transparency and
integrity during the voting process.