Political parties push back on ECN logo ban

By: Envaalde Matheus

Political parties are defying the Electoral Commission of Namibia’s ban on the use of its logo in campaigns, insisting it is a tool for voter education and not a sign of ECN endorsement.

On Wednesday, ECN’s Chief Electoral Officer, Peter Shaama, banned the use of the Commission’s logo in campaigns ahead of the 2025 elections, warning it could mislead voters and compromise the Commission’s independence.

Parties maintain that displaying the logo demonstrates readiness to participate in elections and helps familiarise voters with the ballot paper.

NUDO MP Vetaruhe Kandorozu said using the ECN logo on campaign materials is legal, part of normal campaigning, and a vital tool to educate voters on the upcoming elections and where to cast their ballots.

LPM National Spokesperson Lifalaza Simataa acknowledged that while there is some risk that using the ECN logo could be misinterpreted as an endorsement, there should be open dialogue between the Commission and parties to avoid any confusion.