Political parties slam ECN over poor planning, ballot shortages

The Landless People’s Movement (LPM) and Namibia Economic Freedom Fighters (NEFF) have expressed concern over the Electoral Commission of Namibia’s (ECN) handling of the recent special voting exercise, citing logistical issues, insufficient voting stations and lack of communication.

LPM spokesperson Lifalaza Simataa said ECN’s poor coordination led to crowd control problems, resulting in the use of tear gas to disperse voters.

“It’s particularly worrying because these are our security cluster members, including the NDF and Namibian Police,” Simataa said, adding that he questions ECN’s readiness for the general elections on 27 November. He noted that one polling station ran out of ballot papers, while another had to be moved outdoors.

Simataa also criticised ECN’s communication, stating that voters have to rely on social media for updates instead of official ECN channels.

NEFF deputy leader Kalimbo Iipumbu called the process chaotic, with many people unable to vote. He urged ECN to suspend the elections, warning of potential legal challenges. “If ECN cannot handle these numbers, the general elections will be chaotic,” he cautioned, adding that the commission’s failure to prepare properly jeopardises Namibia’s democratic integrity. Both parties called for urgent improvements to ensure a smoother process on 27 November.