Namibia’s ruling party presidential candidate leads in early results of an election characterized by technical problems which caused voting to be extended for three days.

Partial results from Namibia’s elections show the sparsely populated southwest African nation is on course to appoint its first female leader since it gained independence almost 35 years ago.

Ndaitwah, could become the nation’s first female president if she wins the highly anticipated presidential election

A woman who joined Namibia’s independence movement in the 1970s is a strong contender to become its first female leader as the country votes in a presidential election.

Analysts say the outcome could depend on young voters, who make up more than half of the electorate. Namibians are also choosing new members of parliament. Namibia is a vast and peaceful country with a sparse population of about three million, around half of whom are eligible to vote.

Ndaitwah, 72, is the current vice president and the ruling SWAPO party's candidate for president. She's already in the lead after special voting among citizens overseas and the armed forces.