Kamanjab: ECN Returning Officer for the Kamanjab Constituency, Elias Kandi, has assured Namibians of a smooth by-election voting process in the constituency in the Kunene Region on Tuesday. Kandi reported that the three teams in Kamanjab have encountered no incidents so far, aside from minor disruptions caused by voters who claim to assist the illiterate or the elderly.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the constituency largely consists of elderly citizens who require assistance during the voting process. Kandi stated, “We have allowed voters to assist those who cannot read, one person can assist at least 10 people. However, some people show up to claim someone cannot read or write, which causes small disruptions during the voting process.”

Supervisor of registration, Kizzy Dudu-Murorua, noted that the by-elections are being closely monitored and that the Electoral Commission of Namibia (ECN) has conducted mandatory voter education for the illiterate and the elderly. Presiding officer at the Kamanjab community hall, Eugene Tsaes, reported smooth voting at the station.

Tsaes observed that voter turnout was fluctuating, with a notable number of people present in the morning when the polls opened, though it became quieter as people went to work. He expects increased turnout after working hours. Tsaes praised the efforts of voter educators, stating that they have effectively informed voters about their responsibilities, resulting in minimal hindrances or problems.

“We have elders that come hand in hand with their own assistants, and they know what is expected of them,” Tsaes remarked.