Pandeni was a Born Leader – Iilonga

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By John Ekongo

WINDHOEK

In true comradeship, one man who knew the late John Pandeni very well has described him as a fearless warrior, a brave man and true soldier.

Petrus Iilonga, the Deputy Minister of Labour and Social Welfare, narrated to New Era the life of the man described by many as a political cool head.

Born John Alfons Pandeni in 1950 at Omundjalala in the Omusati Region (Ombalantu) according to Iilonga, Pandeni was a born leader, who at a very young age already exhibited leadership qualities.

“Pandeni from a young age had the ability to lead others, whether it was on the football field or in the field. Pandeni was a true leader.”

Iilonga and the late Pandeni were distant relatives and went on to bond even further in exile. While growing up at an uncle’s homestead in Metii-lyasa, Ongandjera district, the two spent some time together and their bond grew stronger.

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