Electoral Commission of Namibia (ECN) Commissioner Pius Iikwambi has raised concern over the steady decline in voter turnout for regional councils and local authorities elections since the country’s first such polls in 1992.
The 2025 Regional Councils and Local Authorities elections will take place on the 26th of November, with Special Voting for electoral officials and uniformed personnel set for November 24th, National Council Chairperson Lucas Muha announced.
The Chief Electoral and Referenda Officer of the Electoral Commission of Namibia (ECN), Peter Shaama, outlined the components of the 2025 Regional Councils and Local Authorities Elections calendar on Wednesday.
The Minister of Urban and Rural Development, James Sankwasa, has said that he is ready to deal with local authorities that are misusing funds.
Sankwasa also ordered all ministries that owe local authorities to pay up.
The Ministry of Urban and Rural Development organised emergency simulation exercises as part of the ongoing emergency reduction strategy to test the capacity of the local authorities for mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery from disasters.
The Road Fund Administration has increased its budget for road infrastructure for local authorities from N$160 million to N$430 million in this financial year.
Road infrastructure in Otjiwarongo continues to worsen and needs urgent intervention from the local government authorities in the town.
The municipality of Otjiwarongo entered into an agreement with the Roads Authority and the Road Fund Administration to upgrade the road network in Otjiwarongo.
Vice President Nangolo Mbumba has indicated that there is a need for local authorities and regional councils to align their needs and secure funds for the overall development of the Zambezi Region.
Mbumba held a meeting with local and regional councillors at Katima Mulilo.
The Deputy Minister of Information and Communication Technologies, Emma Theofelus, has called for strategic investments in digital transformation by local authorities.
The Minister of Finance and Public Enterprises, Iipumbu Shiimi, reiterated the significance of engaging with ||Kharas regional leadership during a meeting held in Keetmanshoop.
He emphasised the importance of consulting with stakeholders to effectively address and incorporate their budgetary needs.
