Hage Geingob Namibia’s anti-apartheid president dies at
Namibia’s anti-apartheid president Hage Geingob dies at.
Namibia’s President Hage Geingob Passes Away at 82
Namibia’s president and founding prime minister, Hage Geingob, passed away on Sunday at the age of 82 while receiving treatment for cancer. The news of his death has shocked the nation, and the southern African country has quickly sworn in his deputy, Vice President Nangolo Mbumba, to complete the remaining time in office.
A Central Role in Africa’s Stable Democracy
Hage Geingob played a crucial 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 became an instrumental figure in the country’s fight for independence. Namibia gained independence in 1990, after more than a century of German and apartheid South African rule.
Geingob served as Namibia’s third president since 2015 and was set to complete his second and final term in office this year. However, his untimely demise has cut short his leadership. In accordance with the constitution, Vice President Nangolo Mbumba has been sworn in as the acting president in the capital city of Windhoek.
A Life of Achievements and Contributions
Hage Geingob’s life was filled with remarkable achievements and contributions to his nation and the African continent. Despite his soft-spoken demeanor, he was firm in advancing Africa’s agenda in world affairs. Throughout his presidency, Geingob maintained close relations with a range of global powers, including the United States, Western countries, and China.
Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his condolences, highlighting Geingob’s personal contribution to fostering friendly relations between Namibia and Russia. Geingob’s diplomatic efforts played a significant role in strengthening Namibia’s position on the world stage.
Legacy and Socioeconomic Challenges
Namibia, a country with just over 2.5 million people, is rich in valuable minerals such as diamonds, gold, and uranium. However, despite being classified as an upper-middle-income country, socioeconomic inequalities persist, according to the World Bank.
Geingob leaves behind a legacy of political and economic stability in a region that has often been plagued by conflicts and disputed elections. His leadership faced criticism from the opposition last year for endorsing disputed elections in Zimbabwe. Nevertheless, Geingob remained committed to promoting democracy and stability within the region.
A Voice for Justice and Equality
Hage Geingob was known for his outspokenness on both domestic and international issues. In January, he openly criticized Germany for its support of Israel, particularly 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 importance of Germany’s commitment to atoning for the genocide in Namibia while condemning the alleged atrocities in Gaza.
Geingob’s words carried weight due to the historical context of Namibia’s own experiences with colonial oppression. Between 1904 and 1908, colonial security forces in Namibia killed tens of thousands of people during an uprising. Germany acknowledged the genocide in 2021 and pledged over $1 billion for infrastructure projects in Namibia.
Condolences and Remembrances
African leaders have expressed their condolences for the loss of Hage Geingob. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa described him as a “towering veteran” who played a vital role in Namibia’s liberation. Kenyan President William Ruto praised Geingob’s efforts in promoting Africa’s voice and visibility on the global stage. Zimbabwe’s President Emmerson Mnangagwa acknowledged Geingob’s leadership and resilience.
The passing of President Hage Geingob is a significant loss for Namibia and Africa as a whole. His contributions to his nation and the continent will be remembered and celebrated for years to come.
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Hage Geingob, Namibia’s anti-apartheid president, dies at
Hage Geingob, Namibia’s anti-apartheid president, passes away at.
