ECN needs 17 vehicles for elections in Kunene

The Electoral Commission of Namibia (ECN) in the Kunene region requires 17 additional vehicles to ensure full coverage for the regional council and local authority elections on Wednesday.

Kunene regional electoral officer Mike Nganjone told Nampa on Sunday that a lack of transportation and tents remains the area’s biggest logistical challenge.

“It is difficult to deploy polling teams, deliver election materials, and ensure all voters in remote areas are reached without adequate vehicles,” Nganjone said.

The Kunene region has 350 polling stations spread across its seven constituencies. These include 51 polling stations at Opuwo Urban, 50 at Opuwo Rural, 52 at Outjo, 53 at Sesfontein, 48 at Kamanjab, 49 at Khorixas, and 47 in the Epupa Constituency.

Nganjone said despite substantial progress in educating voters and training poll workers, the insufficient transportation makes it difficult to effectively cover every polling station.

“We are dedicated to making sure no voter is left behind, and we are working with headquarters and stakeholders to find solutions,” he said.

The ECN, however, remains optimistic that preparations will be completed on schedule despite the difficulties.

Backup measures have been established, including the use of four-wheel drive vehicles and helicopters for areas that are difficult to access.

Namibians will on Wednesday elect regional councillors and local authority representatives nationwide.

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