Governor calls for peace at burial of slain headman

Tuyeimo HaidulaONDANGWAOshikoto regional governor Sacky Kathindi on Saturday called for calm, restraint and peaceful dispute resolution during the burial of Onelago village headman Sam Pendapala Nepando, who was fatally attacked while mediating a community land dispute.Nepando, who also doubles as assistant headman of Iikokola village, was shot on 2 January and died on the spot while that village’s headman I-Ben Nashandi escaped with injuries from the same attack, which happened in the Onayena constituency of Oshikoto Region. They were allegedly shot by local resident Sinskus Johannes (59), who had allegedly fenced off pieces of communal land without permission from local leaders. Johannes appeared in the Ondangwa Magistrate’s Court facing several charges, including murder, and was remanded in custody. Kathindi made the appeal on Saturday at Onamutene cemetery, describing the incident as a tragedy that has shaken Oshikoto Region and the nation at large.“This is not an ordinary burial,” Kathindi said. “We stand here not only to mourn the passing of a leader, but to confront the painful reality that his life was taken while he was faithfully serving his people.”He said the circumstances of Nepando’s death cut deeply into the country’s conscience, particularly because the headman was performing his duties as a mediator and custodian of peace.On behalf of government and the people of Oshikoto, Kathindi conveyed condolences to Nepando’s widow, children, the extended family, the Onelago community and the Ondonga Traditional Authority.“He was a leader not by title alone, but by character, conduct and conviction,” Kathindi said, adding that Nepando dedicated his life to resolving disputes, restoring harmony and protecting the social fabric of his community.He stressed that the loss extended beyond one family or village, describing it as a blow to traditional leadership and to all Namibians who believe in peaceful coexistence and respect for authority and the rule of law.Kathindi also expressed gratitude that fellow headman Nashandi survived the incident, wishing him strength and recovery as he deals with the aftermath of the attack.“Today is not a day for anger, retaliation or hatred,” he said. “Violence can never be a solution. Bloodshed can never be a form of justice.”Kathindi cautioned against violent responses to land-related disputes, noting that such matters should be addressed through lawful and structured processes under both customary and statutory law.He said government would allow the judicial process to take its course, while calling on traditional authorities, community leaders and institutions to strengthen dispute-resolution mechanisms and ensure the safety of those who serve communities.“As we commit his body to the earth, let us commit his values to our hearts,” Kathindi said.Omukwanilwa of Ondonga Fillemon Shuumbwa Nangolo said he will not relent as a traditional leader, and will continue to serve without fear or favour even in the aftermath of the Nepando’s killing. Nangolo told his community that he will not forsake them but he excepts them to follow the law and order. Nepando was remembered as a humble servant leader whose legacy of peace and service will continue to guide Oshikoto communities. He is survived by his wife, siblings and five children. - tuyeimo@nmh-hub.com.na

Governor calls for peace at burial of slain headman

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Namibian Sun 2026-03-02

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Governor calls for peace at burial of slain headman

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Namibian Sun 2026-03-02

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