PDM wants state funeral for late chief
The Popular Democratic Movement (PDM) has requested President Hage Geingob to grant the late Chief Dawid Fredericks of the !Aman Traditional Authority a state funeral.
Fredericks, who died on Saturday, was a prominent figure in the Nama and OvaHerero 1904-08 genocide reparations claim.
In a statement issued this week PDM president McHenry Venaani said he had noted that sometimes “important gallant leaders of Namibian society” are not given the due recognition.
“The departed chief has served the people of Namibia in general and the southern community with great unparalleled distinction and honour. He pioneered a culture of self-worth among his people and beyond. He was an ardent fighter for freedom and in post-independence was a voice of reason in fair distribution and access to equitable land reform,” said Venaani.
He added that Fredericks pioneered and fought for restorative justice of the Nama people who suffered an inhumane genocide during 1904-1908.
“Chief Fredericks played a catalyst role in the Church where he worked to establish the AME Church around Namibia which was an instrument that fought colonialism and oppression. These credentials, among many, in my opinion warrant him to deserve a national send-off...” he said.
State House confirmed receipt of the letter but it is yet to indicate what the president's response is.
JEMIMA BEUKES
Fredericks, who died on Saturday, was a prominent figure in the Nama and OvaHerero 1904-08 genocide reparations claim.
In a statement issued this week PDM president McHenry Venaani said he had noted that sometimes “important gallant leaders of Namibian society” are not given the due recognition.
“The departed chief has served the people of Namibia in general and the southern community with great unparalleled distinction and honour. He pioneered a culture of self-worth among his people and beyond. He was an ardent fighter for freedom and in post-independence was a voice of reason in fair distribution and access to equitable land reform,” said Venaani.
He added that Fredericks pioneered and fought for restorative justice of the Nama people who suffered an inhumane genocide during 1904-1908.
“Chief Fredericks played a catalyst role in the Church where he worked to establish the AME Church around Namibia which was an instrument that fought colonialism and oppression. These credentials, among many, in my opinion warrant him to deserve a national send-off...” he said.
State House confirmed receipt of the letter but it is yet to indicate what the president's response is.
JEMIMA BEUKES
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