The Independent Patriots for Change (IPC), led by Dr Panduleni Itula, has called for the election results to be declared null and void. The Electoral Commission of Namibia and the ruling South West Africa People's Organization are opposing this bid.

IPC Spokesperson Imms Nashinge explained why the opposition is taking such a strong stance. "We are fighting to protect the very democracy, rights, and freedoms that our founding President fought for," Nashinge stated. "On election day, there were significant irregularities, voter suppression, confusion, and shortages of ballot papers across Namibia."

Nashinge revealed that these issues prompted the IPC to seek court intervention before the official election results were even announced. "We were determined to take this issue to court, to seek a fair resolution from the judiciary," he continued. "Voters were frustrated, and we even saw irregularities like the president extending the polling date by two days after the official declaration, something that violates our constitutional laws."

The IPC is arguing that the electoral process, from the delays to the manipulation of polling dates, was flawed and illegal. "The law states changes must be made 14-15 days before the election. What we saw was a last-minute change that undermined the rights of Namibians," Nashinge said.

While the lower courts previously ruled that the IPC failed to present sufficient evidence, Nashinge insists they are confident this time. "The problem isn't the materials; it's the constitutional violations. We have presented our case with confidence, and now we are waiting for the court to make a fair decision."

As the Supreme Court continues its hearings, many Namibians, from all walks of life, express dissatisfaction with the electoral process. "People feel disenfranchised and frustrated," Nashinge added. "We need to fix what is broken in our electoral system to ensure our democracy is upheld."

--ChannelAfrica--