POLL | How do you feel about Namibia getting its first female president?

05 December 2024 - 11:39 By TimesLIVE
subscribe Just R20 for the first month. Support independent journalism by subscribing to our digital news package.
Subscribe now
Namibia's vice-president and Swapo presidential candidate Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah gestures after casting her vote in the elections in Windhoek, Namibia, on November 27. File photo.
Namibia's vice-president and Swapo presidential candidate Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah gestures after casting her vote in the elections in Windhoek, Namibia, on November 27. File photo.
Image: Reuters/Noah Ndero Tjijenda

Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has made history as Namibia's first female president after her victory in the country's recent presidential elections.

At 72, Nandi-Ndaitwah, who served as vice-president, extends Swapo's 34-year hold on power since the party led Namibia to independence from South Africa in 1990. She has held several key ministerial positions, including women's welfare, environment, tourism and foreign affairs.

The presidential race was highly competitive, with nearly 15 political parties contesting, making it the most fiercely contested election since independence. However, the election was marred by significant challenges, including technical glitches, shortages of ballot papers and other logistical issues.

As a result, election officials were forced to extend voting in some areas for three days. Some opposition parties attempted to halt the vote count, criticising the election commission's decision to extend the voting period as an illegal move.

Despite the controversies, Swapo emerged victorious, securing 51 of 96 seats in the National Assembly.

TimesLIVE


subscribe Just R20 for the first month. Support independent journalism by subscribing to our digital news package.
Subscribe now

Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.

Speech Bubbles

Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.