Uukwambi chief threatens legal action over alleged defamation
Tuyeimo HaidulaONDANGWA
Uukwambi chief Herman Iipumbu has instructed his legal representatives to formally warn activist Tangy Mike Tshilongo against making further statements alleged to be defamatory toward him and the Uukwambi Traditional Authority.In a letter addressed to Tshilongo, the law firm Greyling and Associates states that the activist has, on several occasions since last year, made allegations that allegedly infringe on Iipumbu’s constitutional rights, particularly his right to dignity.
Dispute over traditional leadership
Tshilongo has been openly critical of Iipumbu, claiming that the chief does not originate from the traditional ruling clan of Uukwambi and should therefore be removed and replaced by a leader from the recognised royal lineage.The activist, who has been campaigning for the restoration of what he describes as the Uukwambi royal clan, reiterated his long-held position that Iipumbu is an “illegitimate leader”. He said this view is based on his understanding of historical and customary processes.
Tshilongo further claimed, as a matter of personal belief, that he has already “defeated” Iipumbu spiritually and traditionally, and insisted he would not be silenced by what he described as intimidation.
“If this matter proceeds to court, I will face it directly,” Tshilongo said, adding that he intends to continue speaking out on the issue.
Threat of court action outlined
The lawyers warned that failure to comply with the demand to cease the alleged defamatory statements would result in their client approaching the High Court of Namibia for appropriate relief. This could include an interdict to prevent further statements and a defamation claim amounting to N$150 000.
In a response posted on Facebook, Tshilongo dismissed the threat of legal action, stating that he is not intimidated and is prepared to defend himself should the matter proceed to court.
He further claimed that Iipumbu’s legal representatives have failed to provide specific details of the alleged defamatory statements, despite his request for particulars to enable him to prepare a proper legal response.
Uukwambi chief Herman Iipumbu has instructed his legal representatives to formally warn activist Tangy Mike Tshilongo against making further statements alleged to be defamatory toward him and the Uukwambi Traditional Authority.In a letter addressed to Tshilongo, the law firm Greyling and Associates states that the activist has, on several occasions since last year, made allegations that allegedly infringe on Iipumbu’s constitutional rights, particularly his right to dignity.
Dispute over traditional leadership
Tshilongo has been openly critical of Iipumbu, claiming that the chief does not originate from the traditional ruling clan of Uukwambi and should therefore be removed and replaced by a leader from the recognised royal lineage.The activist, who has been campaigning for the restoration of what he describes as the Uukwambi royal clan, reiterated his long-held position that Iipumbu is an “illegitimate leader”. He said this view is based on his understanding of historical and customary processes.
Tshilongo further claimed, as a matter of personal belief, that he has already “defeated” Iipumbu spiritually and traditionally, and insisted he would not be silenced by what he described as intimidation.
“If this matter proceeds to court, I will face it directly,” Tshilongo said, adding that he intends to continue speaking out on the issue.
Threat of court action outlined
The lawyers warned that failure to comply with the demand to cease the alleged defamatory statements would result in their client approaching the High Court of Namibia for appropriate relief. This could include an interdict to prevent further statements and a defamation claim amounting to N$150 000.
In a response posted on Facebook, Tshilongo dismissed the threat of legal action, stating that he is not intimidated and is prepared to defend himself should the matter proceed to court.
He further claimed that Iipumbu’s legal representatives have failed to provide specific details of the alleged defamatory statements, despite his request for particulars to enable him to prepare a proper legal response.
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