
The Electoral Court has temporarily put on hold the Independent Patriots for Change (IPC)'s legal challenge to nullify the results of the 2024 National Assembly elections.
Judge Hannelie Prinsloo ruled that while the matter will be treated as urgent and must be resolved before March 21, it will remain on hold pending the Supreme Court's decision on the Presidential election challenge, which is set for hearing on February 10.
In her judgement, Prinsloo said that the decision to pause proceedings is not final. She clarified that the Electoral Court will resume hearings after the Supreme Court delivers its ruling, which will guide and narrow the focus of the National Assembly case.
The judge dismissed arguments by lawyer Sisa Namandje, who claimed the delay would disrupt Swapo's preparations to govern the country. Prinsloo maintained that the temporary pause would not materially affect the party's plans.
Last week, the Court invited IPC and the respondents to make submissions on why the matter should not be deferred. The Electoral Court reiterated that it would respect the Supreme Court's decisions and align its proceedings.