Africa-Press – Namibia. Rudolf Gaiseb
Otniel Hembapu
President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah said the unity, camaraderie, patriotism and unwavering solidarity shown by all pockets of society throughout the mourning of former Otjozondjupa governor and Swapo Member of Parliament James Uerikua are an affirmation of his indelible leadership qualities.
Speaking at Wednesday’s memorial service in honour of Uerikua and son Venturo at the Parliament Gardens, Nandi-Ndaitwah said Uerikua’s life journey exemplified dedication, perseverance and a passionate drive to uplift all Namibians.
Uerikua, who died in a car accident over the past Easter weekend along with his 14-year-old son Venturo, will be buried this Sunday at Otjiserandu in the Gam district of the Otjozondjupa region.
“He stood firm on his convictions, fearlessly and unapologetically, always ready to advance his point with clarity and confidence. Yet, even in the heat of debate, he carried a deep appreciation for the spirit of democracy. He understood that disagreement was not division. It was not uncommon that, after the most robust exchanges, he would shake hands with those he had debated, share a light moment, even a joke, and move forward. Because to him, it was never personal. It was service. It was politics. It was the work of building a nation,” said Nandi-Ndaitwah.
The President remembered Uerikua as a rare breed in politics and as a man who always stood firm on his convictions and articulated his points with clarity and confidence.
This earned him respect across political and community lines.
Despite his fervour in debate, Nandi-Ndaitwah said Uerikua maintained a deep appreciation and respect for democratic processes, institutions and systems.
“Let us honour his enduring legacy not only in word but in action by continuing the work he so passionately advanced. Let us commit ourselves to building inclusive communities where no one is left behind and to driving forward the development of our nation with the same dedication, humility and sense of purpose that defined his life.
“In doing so, we ensure that his vision lives on and that his contributions continue to shape the future of Namibia for generations to come,” she said.
United
Wednesday’s sombre memorial service was marked by a spirit and atmosphere of national and political unity, as leaders from various political formations all spoke with one voice in remembering the life and times of the late Uerikua.
Affirmative Repositioning (AR) movement leader Job Amupanda said Uerikua was a young, dynamic, towering figure in contemporary politics, whose spirit of unity, mediation and people-centred leadership across all political divides was unmatched.
“Even in choosing alternative paths, James still had a way of staying true to the philosophy and ideology of what we all stood for,” said Amupanda.
McHenry Venaani, Popular Democratic Movement’s veteran leader, described Uerikua as a flamboyant and cosmopolitan leader, but one who loved and fought for the plight of all Namibians, especially those on the margins of mainstream economic activities.
Venaani, who chanted an Ovaherero traditional war cry in Uerkikua’s honour, remembered a young leader whose voice and impact transcended offices and political barriers.
Meanwhile, IPC leader in Parliament Immanuel Nashinge said Uerikua was a resilient and dedicated leader who served the nation with distinction, highlighting his contributions to the upliftment of marginalised communities.
Swapo Party Secretary General Sofia Shaningwa said Uerikua belonged to the entire Namibian nation and not only to Swapo, as his role and influence went beyond party lines.
She described him as an irreplaceable asset whose loss leaves a profound void, especially among the youth.
Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila, Speaker of the National Assembly, honoured Uerikua as a peacemaker and servant leader.
He said his impactful tenure as governor and his lasting contributions to development and unity in Namibia will forever be treasured.
Martin Lukato of the National Democratic Party described him as a dedicated and humble colleague and a young leader who served with distinction in Parliament.
All People’s Party leader Kumbwa Ambrosius remembered Uerikua for his work in the international relations, defence and security parliamentary committee.
Nico Somaeb of the United Democratic Front paid tribute to Uerikua, describing him as a man who completed his journey with faithfulness and pride.
He urged mourners to honour his legacy.
Eneas Emvula of the Landless People’s Movement highlighted Uerikua’s wisdom, resilience and compassion, pointing to his steadfast commitment and dedication to service delivery at grassroots and national levels.
National Unity Democratic Organisation parliamentarian Vetaruhe Kandorozu said Uerikua was a passionate and capable leader, who championed unity and national dialogue, particularly on sensitive historical and security matters, and who excelled in his parliamentary committee responsibilities.
Meanwhile, Evilastus Kaaronda of Swanu remembered him as a committed and inclusive leader, whose humour and humanity stood out.
RIP Venturo
Paying tribute on behalf of Windhoek High School, Venturo’s classmates remembered the 14-year-old and his father James as shining lives cut too short.
They reflected on Venturo’s talent and promise, as well as on James’ enduring legacy.
They noted that, while their physical presence may be gone, their impact and memories will remain in their hearts.
Journey
Uerikua was a strong voice in the Namibia-Germany genocide discussions and had recently also been elected as a member of the Bureau of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Standing Committee on United Nations Affairs at the 151st IPU Assembly.
Born on 2 August 1982, Uerikua was a prominent Swapo politician best known for serving as the governor of the Otjozondjupa region from 2020 to 2025.
Regarded as a “rising star” in Namibian politics, he transitioned to the National Assembly in March 2025 before his life was cut short in a tragic road accident on 3 April.
Beginning in 2006, Uerikua held roles as an agricultural extension technician and in development planning.
He subsequently served as chief development planner in the Office of the Vice President between 2014 and 2020 and later as governor of the Otjozondjupa region from 2020 until 2025.
Academically, Uerikua held a Master of Law (LLM) in International Business Law from the University of Cumbria, Switzerland (2025); a Master of Business Administration Degree (MBA) from the Management College of Southern Africa, South Africa (2017); and a National Diploma in Agricultural Science from the University of Namibia, Neudamm Campus, among other academic qualifications.
According to those close to him, Uerikua was contemplating pursuing his PhD next year.
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