Outgoing chairperson of the Oukwanyama Traditional Authority George Nelulu has taken a swipe at his detractors, claiming they have been accusing him of financial irregularities.
Addressing the media last week, Nelulu said claims against him led to him being suspended by the traditional authority’s queen Martha Mwadinomho yaKristian Nelumbu on two occasions.
“People are bad-mouthing me. I have lost peace, and it was not easy to be a chairperson because you have to meet many challenges and risks. So, I need time to rest,” he said.
Earlier in the year, Nelulu made it clear he will not continue as chairperson of the traditional authority but will remain as a senior traditional leader of Eudaneko district.
“I am giving the seat back to the queen so that she can choose someone to replace me. I am tired, and I need to rest,” he added.
Nelulu, however, said he will continue to advise the queen, while claiming there was no evidence linking him to financial irregularities as far as the affairs of the traditional authority are concerned.
He also claimed he found the traditional authority with no finances when he took over as chairperson about 18 years ago.
He said, because of his efforts, the traditional authority was now boasting a healthy bank balance, while outstanding debts have been settled.
On her part, the queen thanked Nelulu for his contribution, saying the traditional authority succeeded in many ways due to his capable leadership.
According to her, Nelumbu was a kind and humble servant of the people, who always maintained peace among traditional leaders.
Meanwhile, the queen has appointed Elia Kashidinge Uaandja, who is a traditional leader for Onandova district, as acting chairperson of the traditional authority until next year.