The Namibia Broadcasting Corporation's (NBC) election coverage policy is increasingly being sought after as a benchmarking tool by broadcasters and media houses in the SADC region and other parts of Africa.

In an exclusive interview, NBC's Director General Stanley Similo outlined the deliberate decision-making processes that guide the policy, from formulation through to implementation.

NBC's Director-General, Stanley Similo, said the policy's success lies in its non-discriminatory implementation, absence of favouritism, and the broadcaster's commitment to remaining a trusted source of news.

Consistency and openness within a well-regulated environment, Similo argued, have enabled NBC to withstand long-standing accusations of bias.

He said these principles have allowed the public broadcaster to maintain credibility despite persistent criticism over the years.

Over the years, NBC has provided free and equal airtime to contesting political parties and candidates, allowing them to broadcast their messages on television, radio and online platforms.

Political parties and candidates were provided access to airtime throughout the campaign period for the 2025 elections, up until the blackout period as prescribed by electoral law.

Unlike previous years, the national broadcaster successfully produced coverage of the 2025 Regional Councils and Local Authorities elections without additional government funding.

Similo maintains that the decision was driven by the importance of elections in strengthening and sustaining democratic principles in Namibia.

The broadcaster's estimated budget for the 2025 elections stood at more than N$5 million.