President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has described the late James Unomasa Uerikua not just as a politician but as a leader who was a voice for the voiceless and who strongly believed in unity, in bridging divides, and in the genuine empowerment of the most downtrodden. 

Uerikua, a Swapo member of Parliament and former governor of Otjozondjupa region, died on Friday in a car accident between Otjiwarongo and Okakarara at the age of 43. 

His 14-year-old son also died after succumbing to injuries at the Otjiwarongo hospital. 

Nandi-Ndaitwah joined the rest of the nation in paying tribute to Uerikua, who many have described as a young, dedicated leader who carried a vision of a better, fairer, and more compassionate society. 

“Uerikua was a young and promising leader, a brilliant mind, and a very well-spoken voice in our national discourse. 

At a time when our country faces complex challenges and requires the energy, clarity, and commitment of its finest sons and daughters, we have lost a bright light far too soon. 

His presence in the National Assembly reflected both intellect and purpose, and his contribution to the strengthening of our democracy will be remembered with deep respect,” said Nandi-Ndaitwah.

“I am also deeply mindful that others were injured in this tragic incident. Our thoughts and prayers are with them and their loved ones during this difficult time. We wish them strength, comfort, and a full and speedy recovery, and assure them of our solidarity as they receive the care and support they need. During this time of grief, we stand in solidarity with the bereaved family, the SWAPO Party, and all those mourning this untimely passing. May they find strength and comfort in the support of the nation,” said Nandi-Ndaitwah.

A rare breed 

Both Prime Minister Elijah Ngurare and the leader of the Popular Democratic Movement (PDM), McHenry Venaani, described the late Uerikua as a rare breed and a young leader who touched countless lives with hope, passion, and unwavering dedication.

“He belonged to a generation entrusted with the responsibility of carrying our country forward, and he did so with admirable dedication. Beyond his public service, he was an affable, warm, and approachable individual, whose humility and humanity made him widely respected and genuinely liked across divides,” said Venaani. 

He said Uerikua embodied the rare ability to connect with people, and his presence brought comfort and confidence to those around him.

“He was a man of great promise and conviction, a capable and diligent MP, a committed nationalist, and a leader who approached the task of nation-building with seriousness, clarity, and purpose. To me, he was more than a colleague; he was a very dear young brother. His passing is not only a national loss, but a deeply personal one. Namibia has lost a committed servant, and we have all been deprived of the full measure of his future contribution,” said Venaani.

Ngurare said Uerikua left too soon and, consequently, Namibia has been robbed of one of its finest and highly dedicated gems. 

“Receiving the news of comrade James Uerikua’s tragic death has been incredibly heart-wrenching. Just yesterday, we were in Parliament and parted ways to meet again on Tuesday to continue the budget debates. You had so much to live for and so much to contribute to Namibia,” remarked Ngurare.

Independent Patriots for Change (IPC) leader in Parliament Imms Nashinge said Uerikua was a vibrant, energetic and promising leader, a powerful voice of a new generation determined to shape Namibia’s future.

“His presence in the National Assembly reflected courage, intellect and purpose. In his passing, the young generation of this country has lost one of its own, and the nation has lost a rising leader far too soon. At a time when Namibia needs bold and committed leadership, this loss cuts deeply. We extend our most sincere condolences to his wife, family, his political home, Swapo and the nation at large as we mourn this profound loss. May his soul and that of his son, transcend peacefully,” said Nashinge. 

Great loss

Swapo secretary general Sophia Shaningwa said the late Uerikua was a committed member of the party and the nation, whose death has left many in mourning.

“We are mourning. We are crying. But if the decision is from above, we all have to accept it. My condolences go out to all of you with tears and with heavy hearts. All of us are hit hard, but we must remain strong and be ready for our days. Yes, I have already said we do not know the hour, nor do we know the minute when the Lord is coming,” said Shaningwa.

Swapo parliamentarian Willem Amutenya described Uerikua as a remarkable human being, noting that he was always youthful in spirit, vibrant, full of life, and unapologetically present.

“You were articulate, sharp, and intellectually fearless. Your political provocations were never for noise, but to sharpen debate, to challenge thought, and to push us all to be better. From you, I personally found inspiration. You pushed me to read deeper, to revisit the dictionary, to enrich my vocabulary so I could stand firmer in the arena of ideas and wisdom,” Amutenya remembered Uerikua.  Tobie Aupindi, a Swapo parliamentarian, said he has lost a dear friend and brother. 

“James was more than a leader – he was a kind soul, a pillar of strength, and a man whose humility and love for people defined his life. The laughter we shared, the struggles we faced together, and the dreams we carried for our country will forever live in my heart,” said Aupindi.

A member of the Swapo party, Uerikua served as Otjozondjupa governor from 2020 to 2025, and served as a member of the National Assembly from 2025 until his untimely passing on Friday. While serving as a member of Parliament, he was also chairing the Parliamentary committee on International Relations, Defence and Security.

-ohembapu@nepc.com.na