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<\/p>\nOnayena 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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
Kamati says he is very disappointed by the attack.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt 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,\u201d Kamati says.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
\u201cPeople 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,\u201d he says.<\/p>\n
A relative of one of the victims of the attack, who chose not to give their name, says: \u201cWe are still in shock.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cWe are in a state of shock, utterly, and we cannot comprehend how such a situation could occur,\u201d another family member says.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
Nepando died instantly, while Nashandi was rushed to hospital.<\/p>\n
The police investigation is ongoing.<\/p>\n
Namibian Police inspector general Joseph Shikongo says such violent acts will not be tolerated, and the law will take its course.<\/p>\n
Shikongo has previously warned against the use of firearms during dispute resolutions.<\/p>\n
Local community members describe Nepando as a well-respected traditional leader who will be remembered as a peacemaker.<\/p>\n
Nepando was a longserving member of the traditional authority who played an important role in the administration of land, governance, and conflict resolution.<\/p>\n
Residents say Nepando was an approachable but firm leader who championed settling disputes through communication and not violence.<\/p>\n
They add that he saw leadership as a form of service and not authority.<\/p>\n
His death has raised concerns about growing tensions linked to land disputes and respect for traditional authorities.<\/p>\n
Photo caption: Onayena constituency councillor Mateus Kamati.<\/p>\n
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