The four shortlisted candidates for two commissioner positions on the Electoral Commission of Namibia (ECN) have laid out their vision for stronger, more inclusive and more transparent elections during public interviews held today (Wed).
The interviews formed part of a public selection process facilitated by a parliamentary committee.
The candidates were shortlisted based on experience and qualifications in governance, communication, social work, strategy and project management fields, with each presenting proposals on how to improve the electoral system.
One of the candidates, Julieta Ferreira, put voter education at the centre of her agenda due to what she labelled as gaps in voter information experienced during elections and backed measures to safeguard free and fair polls.
Her proposals included greater participation by women, young people and persons with disabilities, while keeping electoral processes in line with SADC guidelines.
Josephine Hamwaama focused on building a more responsive commission and pushed for stronger engagement with stakeholders, particularly young people; greater accountability; wider media access; and safeguards against risks such as data manipulation.
Patricia Ileka turned attention to the voter experience at polling stations.
Her plans include simplifying voting procedures, strengthening protection of critical electoral data and expanding civic education, including the use of modern technology such as speech-recognition tools for voters with visual impairments and other disabilities.
Current Electoral Commissioner Emmerentia Leonard, whose term expires in September 2026, set out plans to strengthen the electoral process and tackle logistical challenges experienced during presidential and national elections when Namibia operates as a single constituency.
Dr. Leonard also proposed harmonising presidential and local authority elections while exploring new ways to combat voter apathy.
The committee will now assess the candidates' qualifications, experience and suitability before forwarding recommendations to President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah.
The ECN operates through a five-member board tasked with safeguarding the country's democratic process.