Open letter to ECN chairperson

Dear Dr Elsie Nghikembua, chairperson of Electoral Commission of Namibia (ECN),



I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits. I’m writing to you today as a concerned citizen regarding the recent developments announced by you, specifically regarding the removal of over 15 000 names from the voters list due to detected duplicates.

This announcement left a bad taste in my mouth and raises significant questions about the upcoming electoral process and the integrity of the electoral system as a whole.

With the elections scheduled for next month, the need for a fair, transparent and credible electoral process is paramount. The removal of such a substantial number of voters could have profound implications, and I believe it warrants a discussion to ensure that all stakeholders - including the electorate - feel confident in the electoral process.



Clarity needed

Transparency is a cornerstone of a democratic electoral system. With the detection of duplicates on the voters list, I urge you to provide clarity on several issues. Firstly, could you please elaborate on the criteria and methods utilised to identify these duplicates now, but not during the registration process. Understanding the methodology behind this decision is essential for fostering trust among voters. Additionally, will there be the same methodology during the verification process to ensure that eligible voters are not inadvertently disenfranchised?

Moreover, the implications of such a removal extend beyond the numbers. Every individual on the voters list represents a voice in our democracy, and it is imperative that no eligible citizen feels marginalised or excluded from participating in this crucial process. Kindly provide me with the measures that are being implemented to communicate with those whose names have been removed and to assist them in rectifying their status before the elections?

In light of these concerns, I believe it’s vital for ECN to engage in proactive communication. Public forums, press releases and community outreach efforts could serve as valuable platforms to address the voters’ concerns and explain the steps being taken to secure a fair election. It is essential that citizens feel they have a stake in the electoral process, reinforcing the fundamental principles of democracy.



Heightened scrutiny

Furthermore, as the elections approach, the public will undoubtedly place heightened scrutiny on how the commission handles not only these recent developments, but also the electoral process in its entirety. I encourage you and your team to reaffirm ongoing commitments to transparency and accountability in all ECN operations without favour or fear. Ensure that all electoral stakeholders - including political parties, civil society organisations and voters at large - are kept informed. This will be critical in building confidence in the upcoming elections.

Lastly, I would appreciate any information you could provide regarding the steps the ECN is taking to ensure that the elections are conducted in a manner that upholds democratic values. Equally, tell me how will the commission be monitoring the electoral process and address potential challenges that may arise?

Establishing robust mechanisms for oversight will be crucial in ensuring a credible electoral outcome.

Thank you for taking time to consider my concerns. I genuinely hope that you will address these issues with the seriousness they warrant. Our democracy thrives when all voices are heard and respected. I look forward to your response that will undoubtedly provide additional insight into the matters raised above.



**Akser Aupindi is the deputy mayor of Okahandja. He can be contacted at [email protected].