Across Africa: Elections, Violence, and Hope for Peace
Namibia Faces Uncertain Election
Namibians flocked to polling stations on Wednesday, enduring hours-long queues in some cases, to cast their votes in historic elections. The ruling party faces its most uncertain contest ever, with its candidate, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, potentially facing an unprecedented second round. Nicknamed “NNN”, Nandi-Ndaitwah, a prominent figure from the independence struggle, could become Namibia’s first female president.
Tanzania: Election Violencemars Local Vote
Tanzania’s main opposition party, Chadema, denounced the tragic killing of three of its members between Tuesday evening and Wednesday, the day of local elections. The party’s observers reported widespread irregularities favoring government candidates. Approximately 31 million Tanzanians voted to elect over 80,000 local officials. These elections are seen by many observers as a critical test of democracy in a climate marked by escalating political repression in the East African nation, which is scheduled to hold presidential and legislative elections next year.
DR Congo and Rwanda Agree on Peace Roadmap
After weeks of deadlock, the foreign ministers of DR Congo and Rwanda reached a consensus on a harmonized plan to resolve the ongoing crisis. This agreement came after the sixth meeting between the two sides since November 25 in Luanda, Angola, which has been serving as the mediator in this complex peace process.
Junta in Mali Pledges Elections
Mali’s ruling junta announced on Wednesday that it has initiated preparations for elections aimed at concluding the current military regime. General Assimi Goïta, the head of state,
“invited members of the government to create the conditions necessary for the organization of transparent and peaceful elections which should put an end to the transition,” according to a report from the council of ministers. A definitive date, however, was not disclosed.
Cameroon Revives Traditional Games
Cameroon’s “Pousse-pions” board game festival returns annually, showcasing the country’s rich historical games. The festival’s organizers aim to revitalize these traditional pastimes and ensure their continued relevance for future generations. Marcel Amoko and André Yakana filed reports.
- What are the primary factors driving uncertainty surrounding the outcome of the Namibian election?
## Interview: Across Africa, Elections and Uncertain Futures
**Host:** Welcome back to the program. This week, elections across the African continent have captured global attention, with both hopeful strides and concerning violence. Joining us to discuss these pivotal moments is Dr. Abeni Jones, a political scientist specializing in African politics. Dr.Jones, thank you for being here.
**Dr. Jones:** It’s a pleasure to be here.
**Host:** Let’s start with Namibia. You described this election as potentially ‘historic’. What makes it so significant?
**Dr. Jones:** Absolutely. Namibia is on the cusp of electing its first female president, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, a prominent figure known as ‘NNN’. [[1](https://www.latimes.com/world-nation/story/2024-11-27/namibia-votes-and-could-have-its-first-female-leader-but-election-upsets-have-shaken-the-region)]This would be a groundbreaking moment not just for Namibia, but for the entire region.
**Host:** The ruling party, however, is facing its toughest challenge yet. What are some of the factors contributing to this uncertainty?
**Dr. Jones:** There’s a sense of change in the air. Namibians, especially younger generations, are demanding more from their leaders. They’re concerned about economic inequality, unemployment, and a desire for greater political representation.
**Host:** Sadly, in Tanzania, the local elections have been marred by violence. What’s the situation on the ground?
**Dr. Jones:** It’s deeply troubling.
Reports indicate clashes between supporters of different parties and, unfortunately, instances of intimidation. This violence undermines the democratic process and raises concerns for the upcoming general elections.
**Host:** what are your key takeaways from these elections? What can we learn about the state of democracy in Africa?
**Dr. Jones:** These elections showcase the dynamism and complexity of African democracy. There’s a clear yearning for progress, for greater accountability, and for a more inclusive future. But, at the same time, there are significant challenges, including the threat of violence and the danger of political polarization.
It’s crucial that international communities support peaceful transitions of power, strengthen democratic institutions, and empower civil society across the continent.
**Host:** Dr. Jones, thank you for providing these critical insights.
**Dr. Jones:** My pleasure.
