Gobabis: Community activists in the Omaheke Region have heralded the peaceful election campaigns leading up to the Regional Councils and Local Authorities Elections as indicative of growing political maturity and democratic awareness among residents, regardless of their political affiliations.

According to Namibia Press Agency, activist Lesley Tjikuzu from Otjijarua village noted the absence of violence and political intimidation during the campaigns, observing peaceful interactions among different parties and independent candidates in the region. Tjikuzu remarked on the notable improvement in the political landscape, highlighting the visible maturity among candidates as a commendable development.

Tjikuzu also mentioned the emergence of new social organizations, including churches, in the political sphere. He emphasized the significant role that churches and civil society organizations have played in democratic processes globally, noting their presence in the region as a positive step.

However, Tjikuzu raised concerns about the quality and effectiveness of the candidates once elected to office. Meanwhile, Hionganda Nanda Murangi, head of the Community Against Stocktheft Organisation (CASO), expressed disappointment that campaign discussions did not address the critical issue of stock theft, which remains a significant concern.

Murangi stressed the need for candidates to focus on pressing issues such as stock theft, which affects both communal and commercial farming areas. He urged for strategic plans to be a priority for those elected, given the reliance of local communities on livestock farming.

Lesley Pienaar, based in Gobabis, shared optimism about the smooth conduct of campaigns, suggesting the potential for a high voter turnout in the upcoming elections. He noted the community's readiness to embrace change, fueled by the promises made by various political parties in the region.