By Stefanus Nashama

As Namibia approaches its regional and local authority elections in November this year, political parties are intensifying preparations, closing ranks and fortifying bases to secure key positions in the upcoming electoral process. Commentators are of the opinion that the time is ripe for political formations to oil their machineries if they are to truly engage with the electorate.

This is in particular, to entice first-time voters, those who did not vote during the last exercise in 2020 as well as invade their competitors’ strongholds.  In the 2020 elections, the total voter turnout for the Regional Council elections was 38.26% and 43.17% for the Local Authority elections, which the ECN highlighted as a growing concern. 

Political analyst Sakaria Johannes said: “Preparing for elections on time gives you the advantage of identifying gaps, developing strategies, engaging voters and planning effectively.”

SWAPO
Meanwhile, although internal sources told Confidente that SWAPO has initiated internal processes to identify potential candidates for the upcoming elections, secretary-general Sophia Shaningwa on Wednesday said: “It is too early to reveal such information”, indicating a cautious approach to public disclosures at this stage.

Recently, SWAPO’s President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, called on party leaders to prepare for the elections, highlighting that these elections will determine leadership for effective service delivery to communities.

IPC
Independent Patriots for Change (IPC) party spokesperson Immanuel Nashinge, they are entering the upcoming elections with a renewed sense of urgency, strategic focus and a people-first approach. “As Namibia’s official opposition and alternative government, we are treating these elections with the seriousness they deserve. This is not just about winning seats. It is about restoring power to Namibians,” said Nashinge. 

He added that the party has begun a rigorous candidate selection process across all 121 constituencies and local authority seats. The vetting process, he said, would prioritise competence, integrity, youthful representation, and community-rooted leadership.

AR
Affirmative Repositioning (AR) spokesperson George Kambala, mentioned that the party is currently engaged in a reorganisation, institutionalisation, and formalisation programme aimed at strengthening its infrastructure and outreach efforts across the country.

He noted that while elections are a significant aspect, they are just one stage within the broader movement’s ongoing efforts. “The AR political detachment we will direct our efforts to elections, which is a stage within our struggle at the appropriate time,” said Kambala.

PDM
Former official opposition, the Popular Democratic Movement (PDM) is preparing for the elections by holding structural meetings within its national executive structure to discuss internal procedures for candidate nominations. 
Secretary-general Manuel Ngaringombe stated that regional leaders are tasked with mobilizing their branches towards the upcoming elections.

  “Aspiring candidates will be given the opportunity to come forward in their respective constituencies and towns for nominations.” Additionally, Ngaringombe said PDM is open to discussions with other opposition parties regarding potential collaboration in the upcoming elections.

NUDO
The National Unity Democratic Organisation (NUDO) says it is ready for the polls later this year. Acting secretary-general Joseph Uapingene mentioned that while a national council meeting has yet to be called to finalize details, the party aims to have all constituencies represented by candidates by August.

SWANU
The South West Africa National Union (SWANU) has also declared its preparedness for the elections. According to secretary-general, Wendy Christian, the party has seen an increase in both membership and voter support since the last regional and local authority elections. 

She emphasised that SWANU will focus on selecting young and competent candidates at both regional and local authority levels, aiming to secure seats in both elections.  “We look forward to the elections and are confident, we will take up seats in both elections.” 

Christian also urged all eligible voters to register and participate in the electoral process. On its part, the Electoral Commission of Namibia (ECN) says it is too early to provide details regarding preparations for this year’s electoral process. 

Speaking to Confidente, ECN spokesperson De Wet Siluka said the commission would only be in a position to comment once the 2025 electoral calendar has been officially launched. He did not disclose when the official launch would take place but urged the public to remain patient, emphasising that the commission has experience in organizing elections.