NURTURING THE ROOTS OF DEMOCRACY IN NAMIBIA

The launch of the 2024 Electoral Calendar and Democracy Awareness Campaign by the Electoral Commission of Namibia (ECN) ahead of the Presidential and National Assembly Elections in November, marks the critical importance of civic engagement, voter education and the relentless pursuit of democratic ideals. The forthcoming elections stand as a testament to the enduring commitment to democratic principles in Namibia and across the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region.

Speaking at the launch, the Minister of Urban and Rural Development, Erastus Uutoni, highlighted the alarming trend of low voter turnout witnessed in previous elections. Only 60.8% of registered voters participated in the 2019 elections. Evidently, concerted efforts are needed to reinvigorate the citizens’ engagement in the electoral process.

“As stakeholders we have a collective obligation to address low voter turnout. Therefore, I urge you all to play your part in upholding the integrity of these electoral processes. It is only through our collective efforts that we can guarantee free, fair and credible elections”, Uutoni said. Central to addressing this challenge is civic and voter education, recognised as a cornerstone in promoting meaningful voter participation.

By imparting essential voter information and fostering a sense of civic duty, such initiatives empower citizens to make informed decisions and actively participate in shaping the future of the nation. With the theme Enhancing Electoral Democracy through Electoral Processes the ECN’s civic and voter education awareness strategy sets the stage for a comprehensive campaign aimed at encouraging voter registration. Through inclusive initiatives and timely dissemination of accurate information the campaign strives to ensure that all eligible citizens have the opportunity to exercise their democratic rights.

Uutoni reiterated that upholding the integrity of elections requires a collaborative effort, transcending political affiliations and personal interests. He pointed out that free, fair and credible elections can be guaranteed through this collective commitment.

WHY SHOULD I VOTE?

Elections in Namibia foster accountability and transparency within the government. Through the electoral process, leaders are chosen to represent the will of the people, to be held accountable for their actions and entrusted with the responsibility to govern in the best interest of all Namibians. This accountability is essential for maintaining trust between the government and the governed, ensuring that power remains vested in the

hands of the people. Play your part and register to vote! It is an opportunity for us as citizens to shape policies that address our needs and aspirations. Regardless of your background, ethnicity, or socio-economic status, you have the right to participate. This commitment to inclusivity ensures that all voices are heard and all perspectives are considered, fostering a sense of unity and solidarity among the nation's diverse population.

In his address at the official opening of the 9th session of the 7th parliament in February this year, President Nangolo Mbumba told members of parliament to pick up where the late president, Dr Hage Geingob, left off and re-dedicate themselves to the noble ideas of unity and inclusivity for all citizens of Namibia. Mbumba called on the new leaders who will be elected in November, to continue the tasks of nation building, consolidation of peace stability and democracy, with the aim of achieving shared prosperity. “Namibians, as the sovereigns, have clear expectations of the leaders they want to enter into a social contract with for the next five years. Therefore, members of the executive as well as parliament should prepare to account to the sovereigns on their tangible achievements during the past five years of service”, Mbumba said.

YOUTH PARTICIPATION

Advocating for inclusive participation as we prepare for the general registration of voters and national elections, Miss Teen Namibia, Oriana Ribeiro, has been selected as the ECN’s Lead Youth Ambassador for the 2024 Voter & Civic Education campaign. With her passion, eloquence and commitment to community engagement, Oriana embodies the spirit of youth empowerment and civic responsibility, a strength that will undoubtedly inspire her peers to become active participants in shaping the future of our nation.

Maggie Forcelledo Paz

CALENDAR DATES

General registration of voters

03 June - 01 August 2024

Nomination of candidates

14 October 2024 (independent candidates, if any)

16 October 2024 (political parties and public sitting)

Voters abroad, sea-going personnel and members of the armed Forces vote on:

13 November 2024

National Election Day:

27 November 2024