| Voters’ registration impressive |
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WINDHOEK – A total of 992 Namibians registered in 26 countries during the first supplementary voter registration exercise conducted abroad by the Electoral Commission of Namibia (ECN). This brings the total number of Namibians that have registered during the supplementary registration period to 290 992 – with 290 000 having registered inside Namibia, which is an increase of 71.7 percent from the 2004 figures (82 321) of those who registered in the supplementary process. In 2004, 978 036 Namibians registered to vote, while preliminary figures this year show that more than 1 300 500 people are eligible to vote in the Presidential and National Assembly elections. This is an increase of 24.8 percent in eligible voters, but this figure will be confirmed once all data has been captured. These results exclude Namibians that live and work abroad. These figures were still outstanding. The ECN attributed the record registration numbers to hard work and resources invested in voter education campaigns, as well as improved partnership with the media, Government, civic organisations and political parties. “Despite recent critics and doubts, many Namibians flocked to the registration points to register and they have been able to receive their voting cards,” said the ECN Director, Moses Ndjarakana. More people registered in the Khomas Region (52 078), followed by Omusati (32 657), and Ohangwena (31 643). “These results are indicative of the extent to which the ECN under its current captains, the director [Njarakana] and commissioners are working hard to fulfil its mandate,” commented ECN media consultant, Dr Rupee Tjingaete. “Hard work always pays. Democracy in Namibia is no longer a pipe dream. It is finding its roots. I am extremely happy with these results.” The ECN urged Namibian voters to now go out in their numbers to vote in November. “They should guard against detractors of the electoral process, who do not want to see Namibia emerge as one of the most advanced democracies in Africa,” the ECN said. It also urged voters and the general public to demonstrate tolerance while embracing each other as citizens of the country. “There will always be challenges, but the nation keeps progressing steadfastly toward perfecting its electoral system,” the ECN said. The ECN also said supplementary voter registration will under no circumstances be extended as requested by some political parties. It is President Hifikepunye Pohamba’s prerogative as Head of State to extend electoral dates, which he has not done. Eligible Namibians abroad will vote on November 13. |