A number of Oshikoto constituency councillors believe voter registration in the region is low because people in remote areas cannot afford to travel to register.
Oshikoto is one of the regions with the lowest number of registered voters so far.
Nehale Lya Mpingana constituency councillor Josef Shilongo says many eligible voters are unable to register, because they live in remote areas with no registration points.
“It is disappointing to note there are many people in the region who are yet to register – especially now that the due date is nearing.
“However, some people are complaining that the registration points are very far, but that should not be used as an excuse to not register,” he says.
Shilongo says his office wants additional registration points in the constituency to bring these services closer to people in remote areas.
Okankolo constituency councillor Hans Nambodi says his constituency is vast and many people are residing in very remote areas.
“Many people are forced to travel to nearby areas to register to vote, but only the active ones are able to commute and the vulnerable ones are excluded.
“It would be better if the Electoral Commission of Namibia (ECN) expanded its registration points, especially in the rural areas. The villages are further apart from each other, and not everyone is able to commute,” he says.
According to the ECN, the cumulative number of registered voters in the Oshikoto region who have registered from 3 June to 13 July stands at 76 800.
According to last year’s census statistics, the region has 127 612 inhabitants.
Oniipa constituency councillor Vilho Nuunyango says the ECN has so far registered about 18 000 people in the Oniipa constituency – an increase from 13 000 people who were registered by last week.
“People are starting to move now compared to the previous weeks. The elderly are really coming out in their numbers to register to vote, and it is quite impressive.
“Our only concern is the youth, who are the most reluctant to register to vote. Most of them do not understand the importance of voting, which is why many of them have not registered for voter cards yet.
“Your vote is very important to the development of this country, and we really want everyone to go out and register for a voter’s card,” he says.
ECN electoral officer for the Oshikoto region Ester Hipangelwa says the registration process is progressing well so far.
Stay informed with The Namibian – your source for credible journalism. Get in-depth reporting and opinions for
only N$85 a month. Invest in journalism, invest in democracy –
Subscribe Now!
