Zurretta Maveoro
Chairperson of the National Council, Hon. Lukas Sinimbo Muha, has called on all eligible Namibians to register and participate in the upcoming Regional Council and Local Authority Elections, stressing that voting is a constitutional right and a vital tool for strengthening democracy at the grassroots level.
Speaking at the launch of the 2025 Electoral Calendar and Voter and Civic Education Campaign at the Electoral Commission of Namibia (ECN) Hon. Muha emphasised that local elections are not just administrative processes, but critical platforms for citizens to influence the quality of services in their communities.
“Elections are a contest of ideas and preferred solutions, not of enemies. They offer us the opportunity to elect representatives who will manage our constituencies and towns, shaping our everyday lives through decisions about water, sanitation, education, health care, and housing,” Muha said.
The Chairperson acknowledged with concern the declining voter turnout in local elections, with only 38.3% and 43.2% of registered voters participating in the 2020 Regional Council and Local Authority elections respectively.
He stressed that such figures undermine the strength of representative democracy.
“It would be unwise to dismiss these elections as unimportant. They are just as critical as national elections. They determine the efficiency of local service delivery and directly affect our quality of life,” Muha warned.
He further urged every citizen to play their role in ensuring free, fair, and credible elections by engaging in civic education activities and encouraging voter registration.
KEY ELECTORAL DATES
As part of the launch, Hon. Muha announced that the Supplementary Registration of Voters will be conducted from 4 – 19 August 2025.
The nomination period will start from 26 September 2025, with the nomination of Independent Candidates set for 14 October 2025 and the nomination of Party Candidates scheduled for 16 October 2025.
The Chairperson announced that Special Voting Day (for election officials and police) will take place on 24 November 2025 and Election Day is set for 26 November 2025
These dates were endorsed by the President following recommendations by the ECN in accordance with the Electoral Act.
Muha praised the ECN for its efforts in rolling out a comprehensive civic and voter education strategy, which proved effective during the 2024 Presidential and National Assembly elections, achieving a voter turnout of over 76%.
He encouraged the Commission to build on that momentum by ensuring the campaign is inclusive across all regions, languages, and population groups.
“An informed voter is a strong citizen. Democracy thrives on the active participation of all people,” he said.
Muha called for collective action, urging all stakeholders — from political parties to civil society — to work together to increase participation and uphold Namibia’s democratic values.
“Go out and vote. Register, participate, and let your voice shape the future of your community.”
