Affirmative Repositioning MP Vaino Hangula has tabled a motion in the National Assembly calling for the establishment of a single, unified national election.

Hangula believes that holding separate elections contributes to voter fatigue and unequal participation.

“Many citizens only show up for presidential elections,” he noted, adding that voter turnout for regional and local elections remains low.

He argued that Namibia should transition into a more modern democracy—one where the electoral processes reflect the realities on the ground.

Currently, Namibia conducts two separate elections over a five-year cycle: presidential and National Assembly elections in one year, followed by regional council and local authority elections the next.

“Each of these elections involves extensive planning, budgeting, human resourcing and voter mobilisation,” Hangula said, warning that this fragmented approach places a burden on the Electoral Commission of Namibia, the government, and voters.

“The trauma of long queues and technical problems leaves many voters unwilling to enjoy another election. This leads to under-participation, which in turn results in under-representation, especially at the grassroots level,” he said.

“A unified presidential, National Assembly, regional and local government election means one national civic education campaign, one powerful mobilisation drive, and one inclusive moment for every Namibian voice to be heard equally,” Hangula added.

He also highlighted the potential for significant cost savings.

“Running multiple elections is costly. Approximately 500 million is spent each time on voter registration, logistics, staff training, and materials. A consolidated electoral process will drastically reduce costs,” he said.

Hangula concluded by calling for a detailed exploration of the advantages and challenges of simultaneous elections to ensure that voters can exercise their democratic rights without frustration, confusion, or inconvenience.