Namibia mourns the loss of President Hage Geingob, who passed away at the age of 82 on Sunday at Lady Pohamba Hospital in Windhoek. The announcement comes less than three weeks after the African leader began treatment for cancer, as revealed last month.
In a statement posted on Geingob’s official Facebook page, acting president Nangolo Mbumba expressed deep sorrow, describing Hage Geingob as a distinguished servant of the people, a liberation struggle icon, and the chief architect of Namibia’s constitution. The Namibian nation is urged to remain calm while the government addresses necessary state arrangements and preparations.
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Geingob’s battle with cancer became public knowledge after a routine medical check-up in January revealed “cancerous cells.” Despite his health struggles, he continued to fulfill his presidential duties. Last month, Geingob’s office disclosed that he would travel to the United States for medical care and was expected to return to Namibia on February 2.
The late president, who served as Namibia’s third president since 2014, had a history of health issues, including brain surgery in 2013 and surviving prostate cancer in the following year. In 2023, he underwent an aortic operation in neighboring South Africa.
Namibia, a former German colony that gained independence from South Africa in 1990, is scheduled to hold presidential and parliamentary elections in November. Geingob, ineligible for reelection due to constitutional limits, leaves a significant political void. The ruling SWAPO Party’s presidential candidate, Nandi-Ndaitwah, could become Namibia’s first female head of state if elected.
The nation pays tribute to Hage Geingob, recognizing his pivotal role in the country’s history, his dedication to the liberation struggle, and his enduring impact as a statesman. As Namibia navigates this period of mourning, preparations for the upcoming elections will likely take on added significance.
