Windhoek: Independent Patriots for Change (IPC) president Dr Panduleni Itula has urged Namibians to prioritize their participation in the Regional Councils and Local Authorities Elections, emphasizing that these elections have a significant impact on service delivery and the daily lives of citizens.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Itula, while speaking to Nampa after casting his vote in Windhoek's Katutura East Constituency, highlighted that voter turnout in regional and local elections is often lower than in Presidential and National Assembly polls. He attributed this to a widespread underestimation of their importance.

Itula pointed out that these elections are crucial for service delivery, as local authority councillors are responsible for decisions affecting basic services such as water, sanitation, streets, housing, and municipal operations. Regional councillors, on the other hand, oversee development in rural communities, where service delivery needs are significant.

Itula stressed the importance of voting, stating that those who abstain from voting should refrain from complaining about service delivery. He emphasized that effective local and regional governance depends on electing capable individuals rather than focusing solely on political party affiliation. He underscored the weight each vote carries in shaping the future of towns, villages, and settlements.

Itula observed steady participation at his polling station, noting the increasing number of voters as the day progressed. He also called on political parties to ensure accountability for their council representatives, emphasizing the need to field competent candidates and replace those who fail to deliver.