Frederick was the son of Albert III, Count of Namur and his wife Ida.
Godfrey I, Count of Louvain came into conflict with Otbert, Bishop of Liège, over the county of Brunengeruz that both claimed.
In 1099, Emperor Henry IV allotted the county to his close supporter, the bishop, who entrusted it to Albert III, Count of Namur.
Two separate candidates were elected to replace him and Godfrey sided with the loser.
As a result, the newly appointed Bishop Frederick suffered open animosity from Alexander's supporters.