Damara Chief ǂNûkhoen, also known as Gaob Justus |Uruhe ||Gäroeb, recently endorsed Vice President and Swapo presidential candidate Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah.

The endorsement came during his keynote speech at the 47th annual Damara Festival held at Okombahe settlement, where residents, various ǂNûkhoen sub-tribes, and the Namibian Correctional Service brass band brought energy to the celebrations with a lively march through the streets.

The Damara Festival, or Gaob Fees, is held annually in Okombahe, located about 60 kilometers north of Omaruru in the Erongo Region. This event showcases and celebrates the rich culture and traditions of the ǂNûkhoen people, with thirteen of the 24 sub-tribes in attendance.

During his speech, Gaob |Uruhe ||Gäroeb praised the women of Namibia for upholding the dignity and pride of their communities. Speaking through a translator, he noted that many men have become less active in leadership roles, with women increasingly stepping up in politics and other fields.

“When women stand firm, it’s time they are given the opportunity to lead. During the funeral of the late Chief, Vice President Nandi-Ndaitwah paused her campaign to stand with us all day. Observing her bravery, I feel she deserves the chance to lead this country. I pledge my support to see women lead in my lifetime,” said Gaob |Uruhe ||Gäroeb.

However, the United Democratic Front (UDF), which holds strong support in the Daures constituency, opposed the Gaob’s endorsement. In a statement, UDF leaders distanced themselves from his remarks, urging him to remain neutral in his role as a traditional leader.

The UDF leadership expressed dismay over the chief’s political stance, calling on members to continue supporting its own presidential candidate, Hendrick Gaobaeb, as well as UDF candidates in the National Assembly elections.