President Emmerson Mnangagwa has extended his congratulations to Namibia’s President-Elect Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah on her election victory despite allegations of electoral irregularities.
In a statement, Mnangagwa expressed confidence in Nandi-Ndaitwah’s leadership, citing the trust and confidence placed in her by the Namibian people.
He also reaffirmed Zimbabwe’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties with Namibia, emphasising the importance of cooperation between the two nations.
Nandi-Ndaitwah represented the revolutionary party, SWAPO, in the presidential election. Her party is aligned to Zimbabwe’s ruling Zanu-PF, which has been accused of rigging elections during the past two decades.
“Your victory is a reflection of the trust and confidence that the people of Namibia have in your leadership to safeguard the liberation heritage and bring about socio-economic transformation in Namibia.
“As you assume your new role, I am confident that the excellent relations between our two countries will continue to grow from strength to strength in the years ahead.
“I take this opportunity to assure you of Zimbabwe’s commitment and readiness to deepen and broaden bilateral cooperation with Namibia for the mutual benefit of our two peoples,” Mnangagwa said in a statement.
The congratulatory message comes amidst reports of electoral disputes in Namibia’s recent presidential elections.
Opposition parties and some civil society organisations have raised concerns about the transparency and fairness of the electoral process. They also accuse Zanu-PF of interfering with the plebiscite.
Opposition Affirmative Repositioning leader Job Amupanda on Monday told Namibians that the effects of Zanu-PF meddling in Namibia will be felt in the long run.
“We are warning those SWAPO. One day, they will remember this warning that it is fine to think that you have a strategy to rig the elections. You think you have a strategy to use Zanu-PF? But remember you gave birth to this country.
“Zanu-PF is going to integrate themselves into our intelligence system. Zanu-PF is going to integrate itself into our civil society. Its going to integrate itself in all facets of our society.
“I can guarantee you this when those factions continue to fight, and SWAPO loses power. Zanu-PF will run to the nearest available political party,” Amupanda said.