Members of Parliament paid tribute to the late Swapo MP James Uerikua during a candlelight ceremony and prayer session in the Parliament courtyard this afternoon.

The event honoured Uerikua, who died last week in a fatal car accident that also claimed the life of his 14-year-old son, Venturo. 

MPs lit candles, signed a book of condolences, and shared messages of grief.

National Assembly Speaker Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila said: “As the saying goes, ‘Legends never die.’ James is somewhere watching us. Knowing how passionate and resilient he was, he would want us to go on, hard as it may be. Let’s release him into the care of the Maker and continue our journey.”

IPC MP Aloisius Kangulu described Uerikua as “a great man, a promising leader who always put Namibia first, irrespective of political affiliation.”

RP MP Mbundu Mathais called him “a real leader, a people’s person who made jokes. We won’t see his like again.”

Swanu leader Evilastus Kaaronda urged, "We were given James once, and he was taken from us. Let’s remember the good times and value one another more.”

Body of Christ leader Festus Thomas said the loss was “very disturbing and painful for us, the country, the family, and Africa at large. Maybe it’s God’s will.”

Swapo MP Nono Katjingisua noted, "He was everything to us. Losing him leaves a gap in our party and government.”

Fellow Swapo MP Uahekua Herunga added that Uerikua was "much younger than me, but his mind was sharper. If he had reached 60 or 70, Namibia would have benefited greatly.”

The National Assembly will hold a memorial service next week at Parliament; the date is to be confirmed.