Staff Reporter
THE Electoral Commission of Namibia (ECN) has announced the death of Reverend Johannes Matroos, one of the representatives from eighteen political parties who observed the design, printing, and transportation of ballot papers in Johannesburg, South Africa, recently.
“It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Mr. Johannes Matroos on Saturday, 2 November 2024. Mr. Matroos, a representative of the Congress of Democrats (CoD), tragically passed away while on an official mission in Johannesburg, South Africa, where he was part of the delegation of political parties observing the printing process of ballot papers for the upcoming elections,” said the ECN in a statement.
On 30 October 2024, the day the delegation was scheduled to return to Namibia, Matroos was found unresponsive in his hotel room after failing to appear for his scheduled transport to the airport. Emergency services were immediately contacted, and he was transported to a private hospital in Sandton, where he was stabilized and admitted.
However, his condition worsened, and he was transferred to the Intensive Care Unit, where he remained until his passing.
“On behalf of the Electoral Commission of Namibia, we extend our deepest condolences to the Matroos family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time. His loss is profoundly felt within our community and serves as a solemn reminder of the dedication and risks faced by those serving our nation. We kindly request privacy for the family as they grieve this tragic loss,” said Peter Shaama, the ECN’s Chief Executive Officer.
Meanwhile, CoD President Vaino Amuthenu also extended his condolences to the bereaved Matroos family and the CoD as a whole. He said that the late Reverend Matroos, who led a church in one of Windhoek’s informal settlements, had a long-term health condition which, however, was not life-threatening, and he lived a normal life.
