By Staff Reporter
Harare– President Emmerson Mnangagwa has extended his congratulations to Namibia’s President-Elect, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, on her recent election victory, despite ongoing allegations of electoral irregularities.
In a statement, Mnangagwa praised Nandi-Ndaitwah’s leadership and the trust Namibians have placed in her, while reaffirming Zimbabwe’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties with Namibia.
“On behalf of the Government and people of the Republic of Zimbabwe and on my own behalf, I wish to extend to you my most sincere congratulations on your historic election as the President of the Republic of Namibia.
“Your victory is a reflection of the trust and confidence that the people of Namibia have in your leadership to safeguard the liberation heritage and bring about socio-economic transformation in Namibia,” said Mnangagwa.
He added, “As you assume your new role, I am confident that the excellent relations between our two countries will continue to grow from strength to strength in the years ahead.”
“I take this opportunity to assure you of Zimbabwe’s commitment and readiness to deepen and broaden bilateral cooperation with Namibia for the mutual benefit of our two peoples,” said Mnangagwa.
Nandi-Ndaitwah, who represented Namibia’s ruling party, the South West Africa People’s Organization (SWAPO), has faced criticism from opposition parties and civil society groups alleging irregularities in the electoral process.
These accusations come amidst claims of interference by Zimbabwe’s ruling Zanu PF party, which shares historical ties with SWAPO.
Opposition leader Job Amupanda of the Affirmative Repositioning movement expressed concern over alleged Zanu PF meddling in Namibia’s electoral process, warning of long-term consequences.
“We are warning those SWAPO people that one day they will remember these words that it is fine to think that you have a strategy to rig the elections.
“You think you have a strategy to use Zanu PF? But remember you gave birth to this country,” said Amupanda.
He continued: “Zanu PF is going to integrate itself in our intelligence system, in our civil society, in our business sector and all facets of society.”
“I can guarantee you this, when those factions continue to fight and lose power, Zanu PF will run to the nearest available political party,” Amupanda asserted.
Despite these allegations, Mnangagwa’s congratulatory message reflects his focus on solidarity between Zanu PF and SWAPO, rooted in shared liberation histories.
However, the controversy surrounding Namibia’s election has raised questions about the broader implications for democracy in the region.
