Windhoek: Traditional leaders in the Omaheke Region: have condemned the latest land dispute incident that resulted in the killing of a village headman in the Oshikoto Region.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Iikokola village headman Sam Nepando was shot and killed on 02 January 2026, while the suspect, Sinskus Johannes, has been arrested and is currently in custody. Chief Tjinaani Maharero of the Maharero Royal House stated that the incident is a wake-up call for all traditional courts countrywide to strengthen security during their proceedings. “We are strongly condemning the incident, and it is an unfortunate situation for a person to lose a life in such a brutal manner,” Maharero said.

Maharero further urged law enforcement agencies, especially the Namibian Police, to be present at traditional court proceedings. “We must not take these cases lightly. No one should be allowed to enter our courts with weapons, and security must be prioritised,” he added.

Ovambanderu Traditional Authority (OTA) spokesperson, Uazenga Ngahahe, commented on the painful nature of the incident, particularly for a traditional leader to lose his life over a land dispute. “It is really uncalled for, and the OTA condemns the incident and calls for stiffer punishment for the offender. People who act like that do not have a place in this world,” he said. Ngahahe stressed the importance of respecting laws and regulations governing land.

Hoveka Traditional Authority Chief, Turimuro Hoveka, also condemned the killing and highlighted the issue of illegal fencing. “These incidents are widespread, and I have witnessed many disputes where people were pointing fingers at each other at close range in my area. Imagine that. We need to be more careful and respect the laws in place regarding land distribution,” Hoveka said. He urged communities to work together and not blame traditional authorities for land rights issues, emphasizing the need for cooperation before fencing land.