Police ramp up security amid post-election tension

Namibian Police spokesperson inspector Elifas Kuwinga has assured Namibians that the police are committed to ensuring their safety in the aftermath of Wednesday’s presidential and National Assembly elections.

“Before the elections began, we took steps to safeguard sensitive electoral material, as well as to ensure the security of Electoral Commission of Namibia personnel and the public.

“We continue to accompany sensitive materials and electoral staff to their designated locations, ensuring everything is secure,” he said yesterday.

Apart from securing electoral processes, the police have also ramped up efforts to ensure community safety, both during and after the election period. “Our members are conducting foot and vehicle patrols across the region.

This includes collaboration with the City Police and other security cluster members to ensure that security measures are comprehensive,” Kuwinga said.

He said their members will remain on the ground and continue to monitor all areas. “I too will be out there, patrolling, to ensure the safety of every Namibian, as well as international visitors and election observers,” he said.

Police inspector general Joseph Shikongo on Tuesday announced the launch of a national crime prevention operation, which began on 3 November and will continue until 2 December.

Shikongo said the operation aims to protect electoral materials and the public throughout the election period.

“We remain committed to preventing and promptly addressing any disturbances that may arise, whether before, during, or after the announcement of the final election results.

“We are pleased with the level of preparedness so far, and as always, our members will remain on the ground.

We will continue to monitor developments to ensure the safety of every Namibian citizen, as well as international visitors and election observers,” he said.