‘Promising leader’ Uerikua mourned across political divide

Tributes have poured in from across the political spectrum following the sudden passing of former Otjozondjupa governor and Swapo member of parliament, James Uerikua, who died in a motor vehicle accident last Friday, along with his son.

President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah extended the nation’s deepest condolences to Uerikua’s family, his Swapo comrades, colleagues in the National Assembly, and all who worked alongside him.

“This is a painful loss not only to his family and the Swapo Party, but to the nation at large. Honourable Uerikua was a young and promising leader, a brilliant mind, and a very well-spoken voice in our national discourse. At a time when our country faces complex challenges, we have lost a bright light far too soon,” Nandi-Ndaitwah said. She also wished a full and speedy recovery to the survivors of the crash.

Prime Minister Dr Elijah Ngurare described the news as “incredibly heart-wrenching,” recalling that they had parted ways just days earlier in parliament. “You had so much to live for and so much to contribute to Namibia. You have gone too soon, my brother and comrade. My deepest condolences to your bereaved family,” he wrote.

Fellow Swapo MP Tobie Aupindi said his heart was “shattered” by the loss. “I’ve lost not just a colleague, but a dear friend and a brother… He was more than a leader; he was a kind soul, a pillar of strength, and a man whose humility and love for people defined his life,” Aupindi said.

Opposition leaders also mourned Uerikua. McHenry Venaani of the Popular Democratic Movement (PDM) called his death “a national colossal loss,” saying, “May you rest softly unto the bosom of your creator. Sad to process your demise; fondest of memories.”

Independent Patriots for Change (IPC) lawmaker and leader of the official opposition in parliament, Immanuel Nashinge, paid tribute in a heartfelt statement:

“It is with profound sadness that we receive the sad news of the sudden passing of our dear colleague, Hon. James Uerikua. Honorable James left us far too soon, he was still in his prime, still full of purpose, and still had so much to give to this country and its people. His dedication to Namibia was unwavering, and his presence in the National Assembly will leave a void that cannot easily be filled.”

He added: “A tree does not forget the soil that nourished its roots. We will not forget you, Unomasa. Namibia will not forget you. Your spirit remains with this nation, in every law passed, every community uplifted, every life you touched.”

Speaker of the National Assembly Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila visited the bereaved family on behalf of the legislature, praising Uerikua as a towering political figure despite his youthful age. She highlighted his loyalty, modesty, passion, and dedicated service to both his family and the country.

“The legislature joins the people of Namibia in mourning the profound loss of a historic figure, whose passing is not only a blow to his immediate family but also to the National Assembly and the broader public,” she said, noting that the outpouring of condolences reflected the deep respect he commanded across the nation.

Uerikua, 43, who served as chairperson of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on International Relations, Defence and Security, and represented Namibia at the Inter-Parliamentary Union, transitioned to the National Assembly in March 2025 after previously serving as Otjozondjupa governor.

Otjozondjupa police regional commander, Commissioner Philip Nhuleipo Hidengwa told Namibian Sun yesterday that survivors in the crash, who include Uerikua’s wife and other kids, were all transferred to hospitals in Windhoek. “For now, I do not know what their condition looks like, but yesterday, when we were informed, we were told that the recovery process was going fine,” he said. - [email protected]