The Ovaherero chieftaincy dispute continues before High Court Judge Lotta Ambunda, with Chief Vipuira Kapuuo, chairman of the Ovaherero Chiefs Council, taking the witness stand for cross-examination by Advocate Albert Strydom.

During the proceedings, Strydom put it to Kapuuo that shortly after the death of Paramount Chief Vekuii Rukoro, Professor Mutjinde Katjiua contacted him to discuss the formation of a transitional committee that would eventually pave the way for Katjiua’s ascension to leadership, a matter now central to the dispute before the court.

Kapuuo denied any such conversation, telling the court that Katjiua’s call was solely to inform him of Rukoro’s passing and that no discussions were held regarding the establishment of any transitional body.

Strydom also referred to a subsequent meeting held at Roof of Africa following Rukoro’s death, saying that Kapuuo had participated telephonically in discussions where some chiefs agreed to form a transitional committee. 

The said meeting was attended by Professor Mutjinde Katjiua, Mac Hengari, Amon Ngavetene, Lurencia Katjitae, Chief Boas Tjigaete and Chief Rukambe Uazukuani.

In response, Kapuuo maintained that the Ovaherero Traditional Authority (OTA) continued its operations uninterrupted after the death of the Paramount Chief, and there was no necessity for a transitional committee.

He clarified that the committee formed at the time was solely tasked with organising the funeral arrangements for the late Chief.

The seven-member committee appointed Professor Mutjinde Katjiua as the chairperson, who was the Secretary General of the Ovaherero Traditional Authority at the time.

The matter continues before Court.