Staff Reporter
THE Uukolonkadhi traditional community remains divided months after the government formally recognised Malakia Shoombe as its new head in January 2026.
Shoombe succeeded the late Chief Daniel Shooya, who died in October 2024 at the age of 100, but the appointment of his successor has been met with mixed feelings and ongoing dissatisfaction among some community members.
The discontent centres on claims that Chief Shooya’s preferred successor, Johannes Taanyanda Asino, was sidelined in favour of Shoombe.
Opponents of the decision cite a belief among Aawambo that “to discard, ignore or reject the express wish of the dead is an abomination.”
When Informanté visited the ailing chief in 2022, he indicated that he had already designated his successor. This was corroborated by his wife, Selma Shooya, and several Uukolonkadhi traditional leaders at the time.
The late chief had nominated his sister’s grandson, Johannes Taanyanda Asino, and had even appointed him Acting Chief.
Asino, who works as a banker, later delegated his uncle, Malakia Shoombe, to act on his behalf.
However, in a surprise turn of events in January this year, the Minister of Urban and Rural Development, James Sankwasa, approved Shoombe’s designation as chief following consultations with “the two disputing candidates and their representatives”, the Council of the Uukolonkadhi Traditional Authority, the Chairperson of the Eight Northern Traditional Authorities Association, the Deputy Chairperson of the Council of Traditional Leaders, a representative of the neighbouring Uukwaluudhi Traditional Authority and other stakeholders.
Chief Shooya’s widow, Selma Shooya, told Informanté that she was kept in the dark about developments since her husband’s death but said she has documents outlining the late chief’s wishes.
Supporters of Asino maintain that the community was excluded from the process and that proper procedures were not followed.
Chief Shooya led the Uukolonkadhi Traditional Authority from 1985 until his death.
PICTURED: The late Chief Shooya. Photo: Contributed
