The Popular Democratic Movement (PDM) is opposing a proposal by the Electoral Commission of Namibia (ECN) to halt the bidding process for ballot papers for the November elections and rather handpick a company to print them.

This move, its leader McHenry Venaani stated, raises questions about transparency and fairness and could potentially lead to the rigging of elections.

During the party's Electoral College meeting, which aims to nominate candidates for the National Assembly, Venaani stressed the ECN knew that the elections were set for November and should have adhered to a proper process for soliciting bids from qualified companies to print the ballot papers. 

He pointed out that handpicking a printing company raises significant concerns, as it could easily result in manipulated outcomes.

"PDM is saying no! Follow the procedures and let all the companies that have the potential tender for them to be picked. By trying to pick a company, you are already conniving with that company. To print ballot papers, most of the time we deal with the ECN and ask how many papers have been printed; there's always never an answer. So we know the shenanigans."

Venaani also called on the party members elected to the National Assembly to dedicate themselves to serving the people and upholding the movement's mandate, highlighting the critical need to bring about essential changes for the Namibian populace.

Meanwhile, the PDM leader also commented on the situation in the Middle East, which he said has the potential to escalate into a catastrophic World War III. 

He emphasised the party's stance, urging Israel to halt the violence in Gaza.