Namibia’s Vice President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah leads early results in a presidential election marked by technical issues.
A shortage of ballot papers caused voting to be extended for three days, sparking claims of an illegal process from opposition parties.
Nandi-Ndaitwah, a 72-year-old former independence fighter, is poised to become Namibia’s first female president, leading with 56% of the vote.
Only 220,000 of the 1.4 million votes have been counted. Opposition candidate Panduleni Itula trails with 27%.
The election extension has raised concerns, with opposition groups planning to challenge the results in court.
“It’s about our country and our democratic credentials,” said opposition leader McHenry Venaani.
SWAPO, Namibia’s ruling party since 1990, faces criticism over economic challenges, including high unemployment and corruption scandals.
While Nandi-Ndaitwah offers a historic opportunity, frustration with the government is growing.
Final results are expected this week, with opposition parties set to join legal action.
