President Nangolo Mbumba has appealed to Namibians to uphold the democratic traditions by turning out in large numbers and exercising their right to vote for the leaders and parties of their choice. 

He has urged voters to do so in a manner that is peaceful and respectful of one another, the relevant authorities, and the laws of the country.

Dr. Mbumba made the appeal in the message to the nation ahead of the 8th Presidential and National Assembly elections.

"I am pleased with the manner in which leaders of political parties and Namibians at large conducted themselves during the campaign period throughout our country. The climate in which you campaigned and freely expressed your views in favour of your political parties is a demonstration of the strength of the democratic foundations of the Namibian House. I therefore wish to thank all political parties, their leaders, supporters and sympathisers, and all the relevant stakeholders in the country for the successful conclusion of all the electoral activities ahead of national voting day."

The Head of State also reminded Namibians they head to polls in a year in which they experienced the death of a sitting President, Dr. Hage Geingob.

This was the first time in the history of Namibia, and President Mbumba expressed appreciation for the culture of tolerance among Namibians in the aftermath. 

"May his soul continue to rest in eternal peace. Our processes, systems, and institutions were severely tested and remain firm. Thus we continue the culture of free, fair, and peaceful elections. We owe a debt of gratitude to all citizens who have contributed immensely towards nation-building and the strengthening of a culture of tolerance, peace, and stability."

The Electoral Commission of Namibia (ECN) has accredited 14 local and international observer missions, including from SADC and continental and international Election Observation Missions

Dr. Mbumba assured the Commission of the full support of all relevant institutions of the state in the execution of its mandate, as outlined in the Namibian Constitution and the Electoral Act.

"I encourage the Commissioners and all ECN staff to carry out their work with integrity, diligence, and fairness so as to uphold our democratic values. Our nation is young. Our democracy is young. But, with each successfully concluded free and fair election, our multi-party democracy matures and grows deeper roots. Finally, I wish to thank our law enforcement agencies for guaranteeing the security and safety of all Namibians and our visitors during this period. I am sure they will continue to do so at all times."
 
There are 21 political parties contesting National Assembly elections, while 15 candidates are vying to take up office in State House.