The United Democratic Front (UDF) has successfully defended its stronghold in the Sesfontein Constituency, securing a clear victory in the recent by-election amid a backdrop of serious vote-buying allegations involving a rival party.
According to the official results released by the Electoral Commission of Namibia (ECN), UDF candidate Bernadus ||Hoëb emerged victorious with 1,368 votes, defeating Swapo Party’s Titus Rugondo, who garnered 1,192 votes. The total number of ballots cast stood at 3,507, with 16 rejected. The outcome reaffirms UDF’s longstanding presence and influence in the Kunene Region.
However, the by-election was marred by allegations of electoral misconduct reportedly involving the Independent Patriots for Change (IPC). Several voters claimed they were approached by individuals claiming to represent the IPC, who offered them money ranging from N$50 to N$100 in exchange for votes.
Witnesses alleged that these party agents confiscated voter cards to ensure compliance and later escorted individuals to polling stations. The IPC candidate Bennie Ganuseb and his wife, Veronica Kararapo Ganuses, are at the center of the controversy, accused of playing a direct role in the scheme.
“I was offered N$100 at a local bar to vote for IPC,” said one individual.
“When I wanted my card back the next day and refused to vote for them, I was told to return the money first.” The voter reported the matter to the police, who accompanied him to the candidate’s residence and ordered the return of his voter card.
Kunene Regional Police Commander, Commissioner James Nderura, confirmed that the incident was formally reported by Member of Parliament Jenelly Matundu, prompting an official investigation. “I instructed the Sesfontein station commander to investigate thoroughly and submit a detailed report,” he said.
Following police intervention, the confiscated cards were returned, allowing affected voters to cast their ballots freely.
IPC spokesperson and Leader of the Official Opposition, Imms Nashinge, denied any wrongdoing on the part of the party. “These accusations go against IPC’s values. We are a law-abiding party, and our members are trained to respect electoral rules,” he said.
Meanwhile, ECN Commissioner Pius Iikuambi expressed concern over the allegations but emphasized that the claims must first be verified through official channels, such as the polling station’s occurrence book. He reiterated that voter cards are the property of the ECN and should never be withheld by private individuals.
Legal analysts have noted that if substantiated, the alleged conduct could constitute both electoral and criminal offenses, including bribery and voter coercion.
As investigations proceed, the incident has raised fresh questions about electoral ethics and accountability, even as the UDF celebrates a reaffirmed mandate in Sesfontein. With trust in the democratic process on the line, both voters and institutions are calling for greater vigilance in safeguarding Namibia’s electoral integrity.
