The Chairperson of the Electoral Commission of Namibia, Elsie Nghikembua, says the electoral management body is committed to maintaining the highest standard of integrity and transparency in the electoral process.

Dr. Nghikembua made the remarks at Nakabolelwa in the Zambezi Region, where the commission engaged political parties intending to contest the upcoming by-elections in Kabbe South Constituency.

The ECN Chairperson said it is vital to foster an inclusive environment where every voice is heard, and there is a need for the Commission to work together with all stakeholders.

Dr. Nghikembua stressed that engagement with stakeholders fosters a spirit of collaboration and encourages all participants to voice their thoughts, concerns, and recommendations.

"As we advance, we must also embrace technology to enhance the electoral process. Innovations brought about by the Integrated Mobile Voter Registration System (IMRVS) have significantly improved efficiency and accessibility in our electoral processes in voter registration, results transmission, and nomination of candidates. With this system, we are able to register volumes of eligible voters, transmit results electronically, and nominate candidates in the comfort of our political parties' offices."

She urged stakeholders to play an active role in monitoring and observing the electoral process, noting that observation is a cornerstone of a credible election.

"Let us remind ourselves of the significance of these by-elections not only as a mechanism of governance but as a reflection of our national values, aspirations, and commitment to democracy. Together, let us work towards an electoral process that is inclusive, trustworthy, and reflective of the true will of the Namibian people."

The by-election was necessitated by the vacancy left by Kabbe South Constituency councillor John Likando, who resigned after being elected a member of the National Assembly.

The supplementary voter registration for the by-election will take place from Thursday until Saturday.

The nomination of candidates for the June by-elections will open on 23 April and end on 6 May for independent candidates and 8 May for political parties.

"And our appeal is for the political parties to adhere to this deadline. Remember, I said that we only have 90 days to make sure that the vacancy is filled. What that means, ladies and gentlemen, is that we don't have any scope for extending an election, and that is why we are sharing this information well in advance. It will be really unfortunate if any political party misses the deadline of the 8th of May for nominations. Beyond that, we can't take any more nominations."

The by-elections in Kabbe South, Grootfontein, Otjiwarongo, Sesfontein, and Kamanjab constituencies are scheduled for the 17th of June.