SWAPO backbencher Natangue Ithete says he knew the late Mandela Kapere for more than 20 years.
He met Kapere through Swapo youth leader the late Chris Hawala during their time in student politics.
The relationship between him and Kapere became very close.
“We became friends for life, with so many memories,” Ithete said at Kapere’s memorial service in Windhoek on Friday morning.
Ithete said Kapere was a calm person, good father, son, husband; a gentle debater, a seasoned comrade and most of all a caring and trusted cadre.
He further described Kapere as a passionate Pan-Afrikanist and a global citizen who belonged to all and gave his service readily.
“He put the needs of others before his own, a unifier without prejudice who listened and advised with pure sincerity,” Ithete told mourners.
According to Ithete, Kapere was their cheerleader when they were winning and the master encourager at their lowest points.
“As we are celebrating his life, we are reminded that life is short, hence if you have an idea of making an impact today, do it because tomorrow is not promised.”
Although Mandela’s life was short, he impacted so many lives, Ithete said adding that everywhere Kapere went, he had left uplifting testimonials.
“We have lost a legend in his own league, a hero of youth development, a parliamentarian and lawmaker of note.
“Mandela was a perfect combination of all good traits, humble yet firm, easy-going yet so principled, not judgmental yet very insightful.”
Ithete said Kapere’s death has left a hollow in many people’s hearts and lives.
In his memory the nation should aspire to unite, build and uplift one another, he said.
“When we find ourselves caught between “a rock and hard place”, let us think, ‘what would Mandela have done?’ high chances are, we will calm down and find a peaceful solution, because that’s what Mandela would have done,” he said.
Kapere died of Covid-19 on 7 December this year at his house in Windhoek. He was 38.
He is survived by his father Asser, his mother Maria, wife Stella Thomas-Kapere and two children, Mayara and Turimu
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