- Acting President Assumes Role, Issues Statement!
By Ken Afor
The nation of Namibia was thrown into mourning on Sunday following the death of its President, Hage Geingob, who passed away at the age of 82.
In a statement released by Nangolo Mbumba, the acting president, late Geingob died at around 00:04 at Lady Pohamba Hospital in Windhoek, the country’s capital, with his wife and children at his side
Mbumba, in his statement, expressed that the nation has lost a liberation struggle icon who played a key role in framing Namibia’s constitution.
While appealing for calm, the acting President stated that the government will address necessary arrangements concerning the administration of the country.
He said, “The Namibian nation has lost a distinguished servant of the people, a liberation struggle icon, the chief architect of our constitution and the pillar of the Namibian house,” Mbumba said.
“At this moment of deepest sorrow, I appeal to the nation to remain calm and collected while the Government attends to all necessary state arrangements, preparations and other protocols. Further announcements in this regard will be made.”
Before Geingob’s passing, he was scheduled to undergo treatment for cancer.
It would be recalled that in January, the Presidency announced that the late Geingob had initiated treatment after doctors discovered “cancerous cells” during a routine colonoscopy and gastroscopy.
Further details regarding Geingob’s diagnosis or prognosis were not disclosed, but it was hinted that he would continue with his duties.
Before becoming president in 2014, Geingob served as prime minister for 12 years despite facing health issues.
In 2013, Geingob, a participant in the anti-apartheid struggle, underwent brain surgery, and the following year, he announced that he was free from prostate cancer.
While dealing with various health complications, in 2023, the late president underwent aortic surgery in neighboring South Africa.
The former German colony gained independence from South Africa in 1990.
