– Namibia’s president Hage Geingob dies at 82
– Anti-apartheid activist Hage Geingob passes away at 82.
Namibia’s President Hage Geingob Passes Away at 82
HARARE, Zimbabwe (AP) — Namibia’s president and founding prime minister, Hage Geingob, passed away on Sunday at the age of 82 while receiving treatment for cancer. Geingob played a vital role in establishing one of Africa’s most stable democracies after returning from a long exile in Botswana and the United States as an anti-apartheid activist. He was the country’s third president since its independence in 1990.
Geingob had been serving as president since 2015 and was set to complete his second and final term in office this year. Following his untimely demise, his deputy, Vice President Nangolo Mbumba, was sworn in as the acting president in the capital city of Windhoek. Mbumba will lead Namibia until March 21 of next year, when the winner of the upcoming elections will take office.
The late president passed away in a local hospital with his family by his side. Last month, he had returned to Namibia from the United States, where he underwent a two-day trial for a novel cancer treatment. In 2014, Geingob had successfully battled prostate cancer, showing his resilience even in the face of health challenges.
Known for his soft-spoken nature, Geingob was a strong advocate for Africa’s role in global affairs. He maintained close relations with the United States and other Western countries while also forging warm ties with China and other world powers, a common approach among African leaders.
Leaders from around the world expressed their condolences upon hearing the news of Geingob’s passing. Russian President Vladimir Putin, among others, highlighted Geingob’s contribution to developing friendly relations between Namibia and Russia.
Namibia, with its population of just over 2.5 million people, is rich in natural resources such as diamonds, gold, and uranium. Despite being classified as an upper-middle-income country, the nation still faces widespread socioeconomic inequalities, according to the World Bank.
Geingob, who served as Namibia’s first prime minister from 1990 to 2002 and again from 2008 to 2012, was known for his outspokenness on both domestic and international issues. In January, he criticized Germany for supporting Israel after South Africa filed a case against Israel at the International Court of Justice, accusing it of genocide against Palestinians in Gaza. Geingob emphasized the need for Germany to acknowledge the genocide that occurred in Namibia between 1904 and 1908 when colonial security forces killed tens of thousands of people.
Condolences poured in from African leaders, with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa describing Geingob as a towering veteran of Namibia’s liberation from colonialism and apartheid. Kenyan President William Ruto also praised Geingob for promoting Africa’s voice and visibility on the global stage.
Namibia’s political and economic stability stands in contrast to the conflict and disputed elections experienced in neighboring countries. However, Geingob faced criticism from the opposition last year for endorsing disputed elections in Zimbabwe.
In conclusion, Namibia mourns the loss of President Hage Geingob, a leader who played a pivotal role in the country’s journey to stability and democracy. His passing leaves a void in the political landscape of Namibia, but his legacy will continue to inspire future generations..
1. Namibia’s president and anti-apartheid activist Hage Geingob passes away at 82
2. Hage Geingob, Namibia’s president and anti-apartheid activist, dies at the age of 82.
