Staff Reporter
VOTERS faced several challenges during Wednesday’s election, including a shortage of ballot papers at some polling stations and slow-moving queues, which disrupted and delayed the process, discouraging some from voting.
This was acknowledged by the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Electoral Commission of Namibia (ECN), Peter Shaama, who explained that some polling stations ran low on ballot papers due to high voter turnout, as individuals were permitted to vote at any polling station.
“We quickly moved to source ballot papers from other polling stations in the vicinity and supply them so that polling continued uninterrupted. We want to emphasise here that we have sufficient ballot papers in the country. What we have been doing is simply redistributing ballot papers to polling stations where shortfalls have been identified,” Shaama explained.
He said that the ECN addressed the issue by ensuring supplies were available. Polling stations that finished voting early were directed to remain open to allow for the transfer of unused ballot papers to stations experiencing shortages. He assured voters that those who were in queues were therefore assisted.
Regarding the slow movement of queues, Shaama said efforts were made to improve the process but acknowledged that various factors, including human error, still caused delays.
In addition to these challenges, Shaama highlighted other issues encountered during the election.
“In some polling stations, especially where tents were set up, we experienced that the tablets were heating up because of high temperatures. This interrupted polling at times because polling staff had to switch off the tablets to allow them to cool down,” Shaama said.
He also revealed that ultraviolet torch batteries at some polling stations drained faster than expected, but additional batteries were quickly supplied to ensure the process continued without further delays.
“The Commission received media reports that some voters were left behind by mobile teams despite being in the queue in good time. In some instances, we directed the teams to return to the polling stations in question to make sure they covered such voters,” he revealed.
Shaama expressed his gratitude to voters who participated despite the difficulties.
“Although we have not compiled the final statistics on voter turnout, the images and reports from polling stations suggest and point to a remarkable level of participation. From the long queues observed throughout the day, it is clear that Namibians have embraced their democratic right. This turnout is not only a testament to your commitment but also to the growing recognition of the power of the vote. Your vote is your voice, and by turning out in such impressive numbers, you have demonstrated your determination to be heard,” Shaama added.
