Namibia Elections Highlight Broader Challenges for African Incumbents

Namibia’s ruling party Swapo, after over 30 years in power, has faced significant electoral challenges, retaining the presidency but losing parliamentary seats. This trend is reflected across sub-Saharan Africa, where many incumbents have struggled against rising public discontent over economic issues and corruption. Notable opposition victories in countries like Botswana and Mauritius signal a shift towards more competitive multiparty political landscapes.

Namibia’s ruling party, Swapo, has experienced a significant electoral setback despite retaining power for over 30 years, winning the presidential election with 57% of the vote by Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, the country’s first female leader. The opposition, however, contests the election results citing logistical issues and irregularities, even as Swapo’s share in parliamentary elections plummeted, losing 12 seats. This mirrors a broader trend of incumbents struggling across sub-Saharan Africa.

The year has proved challenging for governments in the region as they face rising public discontent due to economic downturns, corruption, and the strengthening of opposition parties. Observers have noted that many ruling parties have either lost significant seats or been entirely ousted in elections this year, indicating a shift in the political landscape. The ongoing trend is expected to continue into 2025.

Countries such as Botswana and Mauritius have seen historic political changes, with the Botswana Democratic Party being reduced to just four seats, marking a fall from dominance. In Mauritius, the governing Alliance Lepep coalition suffered a huge defeat, capturing only 27% of the vote and securing a mere two parliamentary seats, while the opposition dominated. Similarly, opposition victories were witnessed in Senegal, where the main opposition leaders emerged victorious despite previous governmental repression.

Even among those who maintained power, the losses have impacted their reputations. The African National Congress in South Africa, for instance, barely held on to power, marking its first electoral result of under 50% since 1994, forcing a coalition government formation. This year highlighted sub-Saharan Africa’s emerging pattern of competitive multiparty politics, characterized by increased public demand for accountability and democratic governance.

Public dissatisfaction relating to corruption and governance missteps has eroded the credibility of various governments. Economic hardships, particularly amongst the youth, have fueled protests and political mobilization. The global phenomenon of inflation-induced dissatisfaction has also been evident, seen in significant electoral shifts beyond Africa, including in the UK and the United States.

Opposition parties have strategically adapted, enhancing oversight of electoral processes and uniting to present a consolidated front to voters, as demonstrated by the Umbrella for Democratic Change coalition in Botswana. Challenges for established parties are anticipated in future elections, suggesting that the wave of opposition victories may continue if current trends persist.

This electoral dynamic reflects a remarkable democratic resilience in Africa, underlining the active role of civil society and citizens demanding accountability from their governments. Recognizing and supporting these movements by global entities could promote democratic values in regions fortified against authoritarianism.

Nic Cheeseman serves as the Director of the Centre for Elections, Democracy, Accountability and Representation at the University of Birmingham in the UK.

The recent elections in Namibia and across sub-Saharan Africa underscore a significant political shift marked by increasing opposition successes against long-standing ruling parties. Economic challenges, growing public discontent over corruption, and enhanced organization among opposition groups have catalyzed this trend. As more governments face electoral setbacks, the resilience of democracy in Africa becomes increasingly apparent, highlighting a vital area for global focus on the revival of political accountability and governance.

Original Source: www.bbc.com