Wednesday, March 31, 2010

Namibia's Democracy

Namibia has had two presidents since independence, Sam Nujoma and Hifikepunye Pohamba, from SWAPO, the party that led the liberation war against the South Africa colonizers. SWAPO has dominated every election since the one held 1989, immediately preceding independence in 1990.

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Namibia's democracy has a few defining qualities. SWAPO dominates the contests. Numerous political parties, most are personality-based, thin any potential opposition SWAPO may face. Namibian elections are free of violence beyond the rare incident. However, dissent is often chastised harshly, though it exists. Overall, Namibia elections are generally regarded as free and fair.

(More at The HQT-IE)

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