Namibia’s President Hage Geingob, who led the country since 2015, died on Sunday at the age of 82, after a long illness. He was receiving medical treatment at a hospital in the capital, Windhoek, when he passed away.
Vice-President Nangolo Mbumba announced the news of Mr. Geingob’s death in a televised address to the nation. He expressed his “deepest condolences” to the president’s family, friends, and the people of Namibia. He also declared seven days of national mourning, during which flags will fly at half-mast.
Mr. Geingob was a veteran of Namibia’s struggle for independence from South Africa, which was achieved in 1990. He served as the country’s first prime minister under founding President Sam Nujoma, and later as minister of trade and industry.
He became the third president of Namibia in 2015, after winning a landslide victory in the elections. He was re-elected for a second term in 2019, despite facing a challenge from a former ally and a weak economy.
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Mr. Geingob was widely respected for his efforts to promote democracy, human rights, and regional integration in Africa. He was also praised for his response to the COVID-19 pandemic, which has claimed over 1,000 lives in Namibia. He was one of the first African leaders to receive a vaccine against the virus in March 2020.
According to the constitution, Mr. Mbumba will act as president until a new election is held within 90 days. He said he will consult with the ruling party, SWAPO, and other stakeholders on the way forward. He urged Namibians to remain calm and united in this time of grief.
Mr. Geingob is survived by his wife, Monica Geingos, and four children from previous marriages.