Onayena councillor Mateus Kamati has condemned the recent shooting incident that killed Onelago headman Sam Nepando, and injured Iikokola headman and National Planning Commission executive director, I-Ben Nashandi.
The attack occurred on Friday while the two traditional leaders were reportedly trying to resolve a conflict over land in the vicinity of the Iikokola village.
Kamati says he is very disappointed by the attack.
“It is very painful and disappointing. It happened on the threshold of the new year, when people were celebrating the fact that they had survived and were hopeful,” Kamati says.
He expressed shock and disbelief that such a thing could happen in his community, and appealed to residents to settle their differences in a peaceful manner.
“People must desist from resolving issues through the use of violence. We must dialogue to solve our issues peacefully. Our elders and leaders must be honoured,” he says.
A relative of one of the victims of the attack, who chose not to give their name, says: “We are still in shock.”
“We are in a state of shock, utterly, and we cannot comprehend how such a situation could occur,” another family member says.
According to witnesses, the two community leaders were involved in a dispute resolution over a section of land when the suspect pulled out a gun and started shooting.
Nepando died instantly, while Nashandi was rushed to hospital.
The police investigation is ongoing.
Namibian Police inspector general Joseph Shikongo says such violent acts will not be tolerated, and the law will take its course.
Shikongo has previously warned against the use of firearms during dispute resolutions.
Local community members describe Nepando as a well-respected traditional leader who will be remembered as a peacemaker.
Nepando was a longserving member of the traditional authority who played an important role in the administration of land, governance, and conflict resolution.
Residents say Nepando was an approachable but firm leader who championed settling disputes through communication and not violence.
They add that he saw leadership as a form of service and not authority.
His death has raised concerns about growing tensions linked to land disputes and respect for traditional authorities.
Photo caption: Onayena constituency councillor Mateus Kamati.
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