Staff Writer
Political considerations and internal decisions prevented the late former member of parliament James Uerikua from being appointed as a Cabinet minister, according to Association of Localised Interests president Josef Kauandenge.
Kauandenge questioned why Uerikua was never elevated to Cabinet despite being widely praised after his death.
“If late Hon James was such an exceptional being, intelligent and gifted like they are praising him now, what then prevented the appointing authority to bring him into the fold of Cabinet as a full Minister,” he said.
Uerikua and his son died in a car accident during the Easter weekend between Otjiwarongo and Okakarara.
Kauandenge said on Sunday he was disappointed not only by Uerikua’s passing but by what he described as “theatrics and hypocrisy” that followed.
He criticised political parties, including Swapo, for praising Uerikua after his death while sidelining him during his lifetime.
He said funerals of prominent figures are being used for political grandstanding and networking rather than mourning.
Kauandenge said after the death of president Hage Geingob, Uerikua and former Kunene governor Marius Sheya were pushed out of influence and “silenced from the corridors of power.”
He said it is hypocritical for those who did not support Uerikua while he was alive to now publicly mourn him.
He called on Namibians to recognise and celebrate individuals while they are still alive instead of after their death.
He extended condolences to Uerikua’s family, describing him as a young man with potential whose opportunity to contribute to the country was limited.
Over the weekend, the Otjozondjupa Region hosted a memorial service for Uerikua and his son in Otjiwarongo.
Uerikua served as governor for five years before becoming a Member of Parliament in 2025.
Former First Lady Monica Geingos said mourning Uerikua offers a moment for leaders to reflect on public service.
Sheya said Uerikua contributed to the region and its people.
He said Uerikua maintained a close relationship with the Otjozondjupa community even after becoming a parliamentarian.
Chief of the Kambazembi Traditional Authority Sam Kambazembi said at 43, Uerikua had already contributed to the region and the country.
Former Otjozondjupa Regional Council chairperson and member of parliament Marlayn Mbakera said Uerikua is remembered not only for his position but also for how he interacted with people.
