Windhoek: The Head of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Electoral Observation Mission (SEOM), Anne Makinda, has commended the Namibian people for maintaining a peaceful political environment during the pre-election period.According to Namibia Press Agency, Makinda made these remarks in her preliminary statement on the conduct of the Namibia 2024 Presidential and National Assembly Elections, urging the nation to maintain a peaceful environment during the extended voting period. The Electoral Commission of Namibia (ECN) has extended voting, which started Wednesday, until Saturday.Makinda noted that the SEOM had deployed 65 observers from eight SADC member states to observe about 221 polling stations across Namibia's 14 regions. The mission found that the country remained calm and peaceful during the pre-election and election day, with political campaigns conducted peacefully. There was also active involvement of the youth in politics, according to submissions from stakeholders.The mission advised the ECN to establish multiple voting streams within polling stations to help reduce queues and voter frustration. It also suggested the commission arrange early contracting modalities for temporary staff to avoid last-minute contractual disputes.Makinda recommended that the ECN create a formal crisis management framework to address emergencies, such as ballot shortages or the need to extend voting days. This framework should detail procedures for stakeholder consultation, decision-making timelines, and communication strategies to ensure all affected parties are informed and involved.Makinda further advised that the ECN adopt a robust ballot paper management strategy to prevent shortages. This includes accurate voter registration data, contingency plans for unexpected surges, and periodic audits of ballot paper distribution. In the event of shortages, prompt communication and consultation with stakeholders are essential to maintain transparency and accountability.She also called for reform of Nam ibia's electoral system, highlighting challenges posed by the current system, which allows voters to cast ballots in any constituency regardless of where they registered. This system creates logistical and administrative issues, such as ballot shortages at some polling stations.To rebuild stakeholder confidence, Makinda suggested that the ECN conduct a post-election stakeholder review to address concerns raised during the electoral process. Recommendations from this review should be implemented to prevent recurrence. Additionally, capacity-building workshops and periodic engagement sessions with stakeholders can enhance mutual understanding and trust in the ECN's processes.