Panduleni Itula, Namibia’s leading opposition presidential candidate, declared Saturday that his party would not recognize the results of the country’s extended election.
Speaking just before polls closed, Itula accused the process of being marred by chaos and allegations of foul play.
Itula’s party, the Independent Patriots for Change (IPC), has sought to end the 34-year rule of the South West Africa People’s Organisation (SWAPO).
“The IPC shall not recognize the outcome of that election, no matter the result,” Itula asserted during his statement.
The election, extended to accommodate voting delays, has faced scrutiny from opposition parties and international observers alike.
Claims of irregularities have cast a shadow over the process, threatening to spark a political crisis in one of Africa’s most stable democracies.
SWAPO, which has dominated Namibian politics since independence in 1990, has not yet responded to the allegations.
Observers fear that the dispute could inflame tensions as Namibia grapples with economic challenges and growing public discontent.
Itula’s strong stance sets the stage for potential legal battles and widespread protests if the results are declared in favor of SWAPO.