Niël Terblanché
In a move to strengthen democratic practices, the government has revised the Code of Conduct for Political Parties and Political Organisations to ensure the promotion of democratic tolerance and the protection of citizens’ rights to choose their political representatives freely.
The new code of conduct, as gazetted on 5 September under Government Notice No. 257 stipulates new regulations, issued by the Electoral Commission of Namibia under the Electoral Act, 2014 (Act No. 5 of 2014), and is an important update to the nation’s election oversight, aiming to ensure free, fair, and transparent elections while promoting a climate of tolerance and peaceful political activity.
The revised code supersedes the previous regulations originally set in 1992 and outlines explicit guidelines for political parties, candidates, and their supporters.
Central to the new framework is the emphasis on preventing politically motivated violence, intimidation, and other forms of coercion, which have historically undermined the integrity of electoral processes in various parts of the world.
According to the ECN, the revised code of conduct promotes an election environment where citizens can cast their votes without fear of reprisal or undue influence.
At the heart of the revised code is the promotion of democratic tolerance and the protection of citizens’ rights to choose their political representatives freely.
The code specifies that all political parties, candidates, and organisations must respect the right to peaceful political activity and free expression, ensuring that the political environment is devoid of violence, intimidation, or harassment.
The ECN encouraged citizens to make informed decisions and called for robust voter education and the fair dissemination of political campaign material across all platforms, including digital media.
The code mandates that political parties be provided with equal access to public and private media during elections.
According to the ECN, the new regulations ensure that no party is unfairly disadvantaged in communicating its message to the electorate, thus promoting an even playing field for all political contestants.
One of the most critical updates to the code is its detailed provisions on prohibited conduct.
Political parties and their members are explicitly forbidden from engaging in or inciting violence, intimidation, or bribery.
Specific clauses address the defamation of opposing parties via social media, the use of hateful language, and attempts to coerce voters or officials.
The code strictly prohibits the removal or defacement of another party’s campaign material, a practice that has sparked tensions in previous elections.
Political gatherings and public demonstrations near opposing parties’ events are also regulated, reducing the potential for conflict and ensuring a peaceful campaign atmosphere.
In a move to curb disruptive behaviour, the code restricts the use of public address systems during specific hours, protecting public peace, especially in densely populated urban areas.
The code introduces stringent rules for conduct during polling periods.
Starting 24 hours before an election, political parties are barred from holding any public gatherings, publishing statements, or engaging in any form of campaign promotion.
The restrictions continue until polling stations close, creating a buffer period in which voters can make their decisions without last-minute influence or pressure.
On election day, all parties and candidates are required to cooperate with election officials, ensuring that polling remains peaceful and orderly.
The code also places a heavy emphasis on maintaining the secrecy of the ballot, protecting voters’ rights to privacy.
The revised code introduces sanctions for non-compliance, including disciplinary action by political parties against their members.
According to the ECN, violations can result in criminal charges, fines, imprisonment, or even disqualification from voting or holding public office, ensuring that political actors are held accountable for any misconduct during elections.
Political parties and organisations are also obligated to cooperate with law enforcement, election authorities, and judicial bodies in addressing electoral offences and ensuring compliance with the code.
According to the ECN, this cooperation aims to strengthen the role of election officials and prevent election-related conflicts.
The newly gazetted Code of Conduct for Political Parties and Political Organisations reflects Namibia’s commitment to upholding democratic values and ensuring that elections are conducted in an atmosphere of fairness, peace, and respect for the rule of law.
According to the ECN, the updated regulations will play a crucial role in fostering transparency and maintaining public trust in the democratic process.