A tragic road accident that claimed the life of 22-year-old Divine Adriane Alexis Philander has sparked calls for justice and transparency from her grieving family. The young woman, originally from Okahandja, died on Monday at a Windhoek hospital, days after she was reportedly struck by a vehicle linked to the newly appointed Otjozondjupa Regional Governor, John Julius //Khamuseb.
The incident occurred on Thursday, April 10, around 17:15, approximately five kilometers outside of Okahandja. Philander was initially treated at the Okahandja State Hospital before being transferred to Windhoek due to the severity of her injuries.
According to the Namibian Police, the vehicle involved in the accident was a government-issued car (GRN 306) allegedly driven by //Khamuseb. Initial reports claim Philander was hit by the vehicle’s side mirror while attempting to cross the road. However, her family has strongly disputed this version of events.
Her aunt expressed deep concern, questioning why the governor was behind the wheel when he had an assigned driver and arguing that Divine’s critical injuries could not have been caused solely by a side mirror. “This wasn’t a minor impact. The damage done to her body suggests more than what they’re telling us,” she said.
Her mother, Rochelle Farrah Gaes, confirmed that the governor and others did stop at the scene, but she echoed the family’s doubts about the transparency of the investigation. Another family member condemned what they described as political protectionism, saying, “No title should be used as a shield. Justice must apply to everyone equally.”
As the family continues to mourn their loss, the case, initially opened as reckless and/or negligent driving, has been officially upgraded to culpable homicide. Investigations are ongoing.
