IPC faces potential million-dollar liability in high-stakes court battle

By: Hertha Ekandjo

The Independent Patriots for Change (IPC) may face a hefty financial liability exceeding N$1 million in security costs if the Electoral Court rules against their bid to annul the 2024 National Assembly election results.

During court proceedings on Tuesday, the Swapo Party, President Nangolo Mbumba, and the Electoral Commission of Namibia (ECN) each demanded substantial security costs. Swapo is requesting N$600,000, President Mbumba seeks N$500,000, and the ECN is asking for N$750,000. These amounts would need to be paid within 24 hours of the court’s ruling if the IPC’s challenge is unsuccessful. Envaalde Matheus reports.

IPC’s legal team, however, has argued that the party should not be held responsible for paying any security costs. The case is part of the IPC’s ongoing efforts to challenge the validity of the November 27 elections. As Namibia’s new official opposition party, IPC, along with the support of other parties, has taken the Electoral Commission to court to contest the election results. IPC spokesperson Immanuel Nashinge shared more on the case.

The IPC, on 23 December 2024, filed two separate court applications. The first seeks to have the presidential election results, which saw Swapo’s candidate Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah declared the winner, set aside and calls for a new election to be held. The second case seeks to invalidate the results of the National Assembly elections, where Swapo also emerged victorious.

Furthermore, the IPC is challenging the constitutionality of a proclamation that extended the election period by two days in some regions, arguing that it contravened Namibia’s Constitution and parts of the Electoral Act. IPC President Panduleni Itula emphasized that no authority had the power to extend the voting time.

The legal battle continues, with significant implications for the country’s political landscape and electoral integrity.