Omusati governor Erginus Endjala has denied claims that he said goodbye or confirmed he is stepping down from his position.

Speaking at the Olufuko Annual Festival gala dinner in Outapi on Saturday, Endjala made it clear that although his term is ending soon, he did not at any point say he is leaving office.

“I said this might probably be my last day speaking to you as your governor. As you know, my extension is only until the 20th of this month. But I did not say I am leaving,” he said.

He said those who claimed he is stepping down misunderstood what he meant or could be people pushing their own agenda. “But that is not what he said.

Endjala said he may not get the chance to say goodbye to everyone personally, but promised that when the time is right, he will say goodbye in style. “I know some people think I overstayed,” he said light-heartedly.

Looking back at his time as governor, Endjala said he is grateful for the support he received from the people of Omusati and remains forever grateful to have led the vast region. 

 “Let’s continue to work together and support whoever comes next,” he added, saying he will not leave the region as he will continue to be part of community development activities. 

In March this year, former president Nangolo Mbumba extended the terms of some regional governors by three months. That extension will end on 20 June 2025.

Olufuko is a cultural festival that celebrates traditional coming-of-age rituals for young girls. It also brings communities together and encourages the preservation of tradition.

The annual Olufuko gala dinner helps raise money to support the festival. At Saturday’s event, more than N$1 million was raised through donations and pledges from guests, businesses, and community leaders. 

The funds will go towards organising the 2025 Olufuko Festival and supporting youth and cultural projects.

– vkaapanda@nepc.com.na