NAMIBIA: OPPOSITION GAINED ACCESS TO ELECTION RESULTS, THE BEGINNING OF A DEMOCRATIC REVOLUTION?

In an unprecedented move, the Namibian judiciary has allowed the opposition to consult the election results. This decision, seen as a major turning point, could well shake the foundations of a political system long criticized for its opacity. But is this really the beginning of a strengthened democracy, or simply a well-orchestrated game of illusions?

Transparency or just a media stunt?
The access granted to the election results marks a symbolic victory for the Namibian opposition. Long accused of playing on a biased playing field, the latter finally finds itself with weapons to legally contest the results. This offers a glimmer of hope to a population demanding fair and transparent elections.

However, the measure does not guarantee radical change. The Namibian electoral system, although respected in some circles, still drags accusations of favouritism in favour of the ruling party, SWAPO, which has been hegemonic since independence. If this newly displayed transparency is not followed by concrete actions, it could remain a mere cosmetic exercise.

An opposition ready for a fight
This judicial opening gives new impetus to political forces often perceived as divided and weak. Now equipped with a lever to highlight possible irregularities, opposition parties could transform their rhetoric into more tangible action. But the stakes go beyond mere partisan disputes: it is about restoring citizens' trust in their political system.

However, the real question remains: is the Namibian opposition really ready to assume a dominant role if the cards are reshuffled? Or are they at risk of falling into the same traps as their predecessors? The fight for transparency could also expose internal fault lines that were previously invisible.

A lesson for Africa?
Namibia, despite its modest demographic dimensions, could become a model for other African nations. At a time when electoral disputes are omnipresent on the continent – ​​from the DRC to Gabon – this judicial breakthrough proves that strong institutions can play a vital role in stabilizing democracies.

However, for this precedent to become truly meaningful, other countries will need to follow Namibia's example by strengthening their judicial independence and opening their electoral processes to transparent audits. Africa, where elections are often synonymous with tensions, would benefit from holding Namibia up as an example to be emulated rather than an isolated exception.