Vice president Witbooi salutes Uerikua at Otjozondjupa funeral

Vice president Lucia Witbooi says member of parliament and former Otjozondjupa governor James Uerikua’s legacy will endure.

Witbooi said this at the burial of Uerikua and his son, Venturo, at Gam Otjiserandu in the Otjozondjupa region.

Uerikua and his son died in a car accident in the region on 3 April.

“Uerikua was a dedicated public servant and a committed leader who served his country with distinction. As a member of parliament and former governor of the Otjozondjupa region, he carried the trust of his people with humility and dignity,” the vice president said.

Witbooi said Uerikua served the country with dedication and commitment. Through his service, he helped shape the destiny of the country, and his impact will always be remembered.

She said Uerikua worked tirelessly to advance the welfare of his community and made meaningful contributions to the legislative and developmental agenda of the nation in his various roles.

The vice president described Uerikua as a man of unwavering principles, guided by a strong sense of duty and commitment to responsibility. His leadership, she said, was anchored in selfless service, and his voice reflected the hopes and aspirations of the people he represented.

“In his passing, our nation has lost a distinguished servant of the people, a loss that is deeply felt across the country,” she said.

To the bereaved family, Witbooi said no words can fully ease the pain of losing a husband, father, son, brother, relative and friend.

“However, your loss is a loss to the nation. Your tears are shared by all of us, and Namibia stands with you,” she said.

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