Windhoek: The siblings of the late parliamentarian James Uerikua paid a glowing tribute to their elder brother during an emotional memorial service at Parliament Gardens in Windhoek on Wednesday. During the memorial service organised by the National Assembly, Michael and Jennifer Uerikua described him as a pillar of strength, love, and guidance in their lives.

According to Namibia Press Agency, in a heartfelt tribute, his younger brother, Michael, said his brother's death has left an irreplaceable void in the family. "As his younger brother, I witnessed all the steps he took. He was a loving husband, the best father, a brother, and my friend," he said. Reflecting on their upbringing, Michael added: "His T-shirts became mine, his socks were mine, but never his shoes. They were always too big, and that's how it is right now; they are too big for most of us in this house."

Michael, who is four years younger than his late brother, who was 42, described their close bond, saying they often spoke about global affairs. "He would call me every other day and deliberately corner me in the opposite party, just for the sake of prolonging the conversation. That's how we were," he remembered. "My brother was undeniably the main character of our family. We lost the star," he added. Michael, who lives abroad, also spoke of the difficulty of explaining the tragedy to his children. "It was the most difficult challenge I've ever had to tell them, that my brother is no more. There are still no words."

Uerikua's only sister, Jennifer, said she remains in shock following her brother's passing. "My heart is shattered, and part of me still feels like it's all a dream. I'm struggling to accept the reality that you're gone, big bro," she said. She described him as her "protector, mentor and friend," adding that his absence has deeply affected the family. "You didn't just act like a brother, you guided me like a father. Now I feel like I have lost a dad," she said, struggling to hold back tears. Jennifer added, "Remembering you is easy, I do it every day. But missing you, that is the pain that will never go away."

However, she praised his character, saying he was "a leader with no title, who loved people equally regardless of their background." The memorial service was attended by national leaders, including President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, cabinet ministers, senior government officials, members of parliament, and members of the public, who gathered to honour Uerikua's life and legacy.

Uerikua and his son, Venturo, died following an accident along the Otjiwarongo-Okakarara road on 03 April 2026. Uerikua died on the spot when the car he was driving overturned, while his 14-year-old son later succumbed to injuries in the hospital. His wife remains hospitalised in Windhoek.