Allexer Namundjembo
The burial arrangements of late liberation struggle veteran Kanana Matias Hishoono have sparked debate over how Namibia treats its war veterans, particularly after death. Whether those who played a key role in the country’s independence receive the dignity they deserve has been a subject of debate.
Hishoono, who died earlier this month, was a respected freedom fighter and a founding member of the Ovambo People’s Organisation, the precursor to Swapo.
He later served in senior advisory roles within the ruling party and was known for issuing and signing membership cards for prominent figures, including the late president Hage Geingob and former prime minister Nahas Angula.
Despite his record, concerns emerged over the decision to bury him at the Eenhana Heroes Shrine instead of the Heroes’ Acre outside Windhoek.
Youth advisor Matheus Hangula described the situation as troubling, saying war veterans are increasingly being ignored or given burials that do not reflect their contribution.
“I am worried about how our veterans are being treated when they die,” Hangula said.
He said the committee tasked with ensuring that veterans receive dignified burials has failed.
“Hishoono was not just a war veteran; he was a hero, and it is unfair that he is not being buried at Heroes’ Acre,” Hangula said.
Hangula also questioned the role of institutions responsible for veteran welfare.
“What is the War Veterans Association doing regarding the conferment of burial status? Who advises the President, and who ultimately makes the decision on where veterans are buried?” he asked.
The issue has also revived criticism of Swapo’s leadership, with some arguing that the party has not done enough to care for its members during their lifetime and after death.
Hishoono’s family, however, has previously said the burial site was chosen so that he could be laid to rest close to home in the Ohangwena region, following consultations among relatives.
Political analyst Sackaria Johannes said Hishoono deserves a heroic funeral because of his role in the liberation struggle.
“It is fair enough in this case,” Johannes said.
He cautioned, however, that the decision should not be used to close the wider debate on who qualifies as a national hero.
“In fact, we have heroes who deserve this same honour, but it was not given to them. The government has done their part this time,” Johannes said.
Following Hishoono’s death, several political parties extended condolences to his family and acknowledged his contribution to Namibia’s independence.
President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah described Hishoono as a selfless and courageous freedom fighter whose contribution to the country would not be forgotten and conveyed her sympathies to his family and the nation.
Nandi-Ndaitwah on Monday also conferred the honour of a state funeral on Hishoono.
Nandi-Ndaitwah used her constitutional powers despite an existing Cabinet moratorium on official funerals.
Cabinet last year placed a moratorium on official funerals from 16 June 2025 to 31 March 2026.
Opposition parties, including the Independent Patriots for Change, also paid tribute, describing him as a respected elder whose experience and guidance benefited younger generations of leaders.
The debate comes against longstanding concerns over the welfare of war veterans, including access to benefits, recognition, and clear criteria for burial honours.
While Heroes’ Acre remains the country’s highest burial honour, not all veterans qualify, prompting ongoing calls for transparency and consistency.
Under the Conferment of National Honours Act and related government practice, a hero is generally someone who has performed acts for the public good or made outstanding contributions to Namibia through courage, leadership, or service.
A national honours advisory committee reviews nominations and advises the President, who makes the final decision.
Over the years, government committees and Cabinet have tried to define what constitutes a national hero, pointing to qualities such as courage, perseverance, and lasting benefit to society and the state.
Early proposals recognised that heroism can include political, military, social or economic achievements.
Hishoono died on 14 January 2026 at the age of 89.
