In a significant moment for the Fransfontein Settlement in the Kunene Region, a smooth transition of leadership is underway.
Kaptein Daniel Luipert of the Swartbooi Traditional Authority, currently facing health challenges, has publicly named his successor. His son, Charles Otto |Urib, is set to take over the reins, marking a new chapter for their community.
"I am sick. I was in and out of the hospital, and specialists discharged me. I wasn't really told what I was medically suffering from. After this, we had to sit and talk and decide on the way forward. The one I am appointing is young, as I was young too when I was appointed to lead you. The things we are doing today are coming back from a long time ago. It's our tradition and way of life. I wrote a letter to the minister to recognise our traditional authority. I am now 87 years old, but our traditional authority approved me on my birthday in 1990. We were so happy and worked hard throughout to be fully functional. It's because of that approval that we are doing what we are doing now. We are very lucky people. It's now Otto's turn."
Kaptein-designate Charles Otto |Urib accepted his new role and likened his appointment to that of King David in the Bible.
|Urib is waiting to be officially recognised by the government before taking up the full role in a traditional ceremony to be held in October this year.
"It is with that purpose that I accept and take up this responsibility, my father, my king, and my chief. My clan and my people. With my humble heart. I am giving myself to you, as I have been seen by the heavens. The boy David from the Bible was unknowingly walking around, and a prophet came by and recognised David. David was seen by God at a young age. David's father told the prophet about a small boy in the field looking after sheep. and the prophet called for David. When he saw David, his heart was hitting. Out of heaven and Zion, the same gift has been bestowed upon me. As I stand here as a people's person, as I stand as Kaptein's son, as a governor's friend and Chief of UDF, the hands of the heavens are upon me."
Kunene Governor Marius Sheya commended the smooth transition of power within the Swartbooi Traditional Authority, adding the Kaptein-designate held numerous portfolios that have equipped him with leadership skills.
Sheya cautioned traditional authorities to steer away from infighting as delays in appointing their chiefs affect leadership continuations to effect development in their areas.
The Swartbooi clan settled in the Fransfontein area in the 18th century, under their first Kaptein, Cornelius Swartbooi.
They too played a great role in the rebellion and liberation of the country.