Hage Geingob, the President of Namibia and a prominent figure in African politics, has passed away at the age of 82. Geingob, who was receiving medical treatment at Lady Pohamba Hospital, died with his wife and children by his side. The news of his death was announced by the Namibian presidency on X.
Angolo Mbumba, the acting president of Namibia, has called for calm in the wake of Geingob's passing. He stated that the Cabinet would convene an urgent meeting to make the necessary state arrangements. According to Namibia's constitution, a new president must be elected within 90 days of Geingob's death.
Geingob had been undergoing treatment for cancer, and his office had previously reported that he had undergone various medical procedures, including a colonoscopy and a gastroscopy. He had also recently received a trial treatment for cancerous cells during a visit to the United States.
A prominent figure in Namibian politics, Geingob had been serving as the President of Namibia since 2015 and was set to complete his second and final term this year. He was considered a key player in advancing Africa's agenda and maintained strong relations with both Western countries and China, refuting claims of economic exploitation by the latter. Geingob was also known for his support of African countries' self-determination and independence.
Geingob's passing has elicited condolences from various African leaders. President Emmerson Mnangagwa of Zimbabwe praised Geingob's leadership and resilience, while Cyril Ramaphosa, the President of South Africa, described him as a close partner in the region's democratic progress. Prime Minister William Ruto of Kenya commended Geingob's dedication and his efforts in promoting Africa's visibility on the global stage. Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his deep appreciation for Geingob's contribution to fostering friendly relations between Namibia and Russia.
Namibia, a country with a population of over 2.5 million, is known for its political and economic stability in a region often plagued by conflicts and coups. Rich in mineral resources like diamonds, gold, and uranium, the country has been classified as an upper-middle-income nation. However, socioeconomic inequalities remain widespread.
The passing of Geingob comes at a crucial time for Namibia, as the country was preparing for elections in November to choose its next leader. The loss of Geingob, a seasoned politician and advocate for the country's development, has left a void in the political landscape of Namibia. It is now up to the Namibian people to choose a new leader who will continue Geingob's legacy and work towards addressing the ongoing challenges faced by the country.
