Amupanda Seeks Delay on ECN Appointments
Affirmative Repositioning leader and Member of Parliament Prof. Job Amupanda has formally asked the National Assembly to postpone the approval of the Electoral Commission of Namibia (ECN) Chairperson and two Commissioners until key documents about the selection process are released.
In a letter dated 8 July 2026, addressed to Speaker Saara Kuugongelwa‑Amadhila, Amupanda’s legal team from Kadhila Amoomo Legal Practitioners argues that Parliament should not move ahead with the appointments while crucial records remain undisclosed.
They note that Amupanda previously requested the documents through the Office of the Secretary to the National Assembly and later wrote directly to the Speaker, but no information has been provided.The records sought include the President’s written appointment, interview scoresheets and minutes, the Selection Committee’s submission to the President, and the President’s final recommendation.
According to the lawyers, these documents are essential for Amupanda to fulfil his constitutional duties and make an informed decision on the nominees.The letter also questions the proposed term of the incoming ECN Chairperson. It highlights that the nominee’s term would end on 21 June 2027, while the current Chairperson’s term expires on 16 September 2026. Approving a shortened term without access to supporting documentation, the legal team argues, would be unreasonable.
Amupanda’s lawyers have given the Speaker until 12:00 on Wednesday to confirm in writing that the approval process will be deferred until the documents are released. If the undertaking is not provided, they intend to approach the High Court urgently to seek an order preventing Parliament from proceeding with the approvals.
