Logistics Plan for Upcoming Elections
The Electoral Commission of Namibia (ECN) has announced plans to hire over 5,000 private vehicles and equipment to support the logistics for the upcoming regional council and local authority elections. This initiative is part of a broader effort to ensure smooth operations during the electoral process.
Vehicle Requirements and Selection Process
The hiring of 5,173 private vehicles is outlined in the commission’s expression of interest notice issued last month. Interested vehicle owners were given time to make their vehicles available for inspection and roadworthy testing from 27 to 31 October across the country. This process was conducted in accordance with the Public Procurement Act and the electoral operations policy.
According to the list of vehicles needed by the ECN, the commission requires over 5,000 vehicles in 14 regions. The Ohangwena region needs the most at 716, followed by the Omusati region with 689 and the Oshikoto region with 520 vehicles. The Zambezi region needs about 326 vehicles, but was reported to be short of 73 vehicles on Wednesday.
Specifications for Vehicles
The notice outlines specific requirements for the vehicles. They must not be older than 10 years, must be a single or double-cab 2×4 or 4×4 with a canopy, and must be roadworthy. Tyres should not be older than five years. Additionally, the vehicles should not have any stickers, slogans, or colours bearing messages of political parties, or religious or business institutions.
The ECN further requires 174 vehicles in the Hardap region, 276 in the Khomas region, 277 in the Omaheke region, 326 in the Otjozondjupa region, 327 in the Kavango West region, 329 in the Kavango East, 230 in Erongo, 330 in Oshana, 239 in ||Kharas, and 351 in the Kunene region.
Past Experience and Contractual Obligations
The ECN used 1,306 vehicles from private owners across the country for the supplementary registration of voters held from 4 to 19 August. All owners of the selected vehicles who meet the prescribed inspection and testing requirements will enter into a contract with the commission.
Vehicle owners are also required to provide insurance as proof. In the absence of that, they must sign an indemnity form allowing the use of the vehicle for the election exercise.
Payment Rates for Vehicles
During the 2024 presidential and National Assembly elections, vehicles used in urban areas were paid N$1,350, in semi-urban to rural areas N$1,550, and vehicles used in hard-to-reach areas were paid N$2,050.
Additional Equipment Needed
In addition to the vehicles, the ECN also requires other equipment. This includes 5,740 steel and folding plastic tables, 13,285 chairs, 1,563 generators, and 1,026 tents.
Conclusion
The ECN’s comprehensive logistics plan highlights the importance of efficient transportation and infrastructure for successful elections. By engaging private vehicle owners and ensuring compliance with strict specifications, the commission aims to maintain the integrity and efficiency of the electoral process. The use of additional equipment further underscores the commitment to providing a fair and organized voting environment for all citizens.