Looking at the low voter registration numbers around the country, can one say the right communication channels and mediums are being used to attract potential voters? Are the traditional means of communication really working?
Have the Electoral Commission of Namibia (ECN) and political parties taken time to study the recent census results to understand the demographics and psychological aspects of those who are eligible to vote?
Surely, with the proliferation of various technologies and platforms entering the market, the ECN could have leveraged the benefits those platforms offer and incorporated them into the election’s communication strategy.
Namibia has several startups and businesses that have created impressive gaming and augmented reality technologies. These innovations are designed to engage with the youth. For example, Maerua Mall has augmented reality (AR) technology, where visitors can select a simulation that interests them and experience a virtual environment for five to six minutes. ECN can partner with AR entrepreneurs to create awareness and persuade the youth who use those technologies to register to vote.
AR has the potential to transform the voting process. By integrating computer-generated content into the real world, AR significantly enhances the transparency and integrity of voting. AR provides real-time updates on ballot counting, vote tallies, and other electoral data, thereby boosting public trust and confidence in the electoral system.
Moreover, AR revolutionises the polling experience by creating interactive polling stations. These stations would overlay digital information onto the physical environment, providing voters a more engaging and interactive experience.
AR allows for remote voting and enables voters to access digital ballots using mobile devices or wearable technology. This offers a more accessible and secure option for participating in elections, especially for those facing physical disabilities or geographical barriers.
Interactive simulations of the voting process could help voters better understand and navigate the complexities of the electoral system, benefitting first-time or younger voters.
ABC News in America, for example, used AR to provide real-time election results and analysis. South Korea, during its 2017 presidential election, used AR to provide real-time election information and candidate profiles to the public. Karnataka, in India, used AR during its 2018 state elections in a voter awareness campaign to educate citizens on the voting process and encourage higher voter turnout.
South Africa used AR applications to provide information about the electoral process and the importance of voting, particularly targeting younger voters to increase their participation. Namibia would also set a trend in this area.
AR has the potential to provide electors with inaccurate or biased information, which could potentially affect their decisions and distort election results. Additionally, the availability and inclusiveness of AR-based voting systems must be thoroughly assessed.
Certain population segments may be excluded, and barriers to participation may be created since not all voters have access to the required devices or technological literacy to use AR technologies.
To conclude, AR is both complex and beneficial. However, ECN and political parties should consider using it as a supplementary communication platform, as it has proven to enhance the voter’s experience, improve accessibility, increase voter participation in the electoral process, and increase transparency.
*Morna Ikosa is a columnist and communications strategist.
