Nujoma Hails Late President Geingob as a Unifier in Namibian Politics

Windhoek, Namibia – During the state memorial service for Namibia’s late President Dr. Hage Geingob, the nation’s Founding President Sam Nujoma praised Geingob’s legacy as a unifier and advocate for inclusivity in Namibian politics.

According to Namibia Press Agency, a statement delivered by Prime Minister Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila on behalf of Nujoma, the global outpouring of love and respect for Geingob underscored his commitment to multilateral diplomacy and unity within the diverse fabric of Namibian society.

Nujoma highlighted Geingob’s mantra of “The Namibian House,” where no one should feel left out, as a testament to his vision for a unified Namibia, free from the divisions of tribalism. This vision, Nujoma stated, was central to Geingob’s political ethos and his efforts to foster national cohesion.

Reflecting on his last conversation with Geingob, Nujoma shared that he had wished him a speedy recovery and the strength to continue leading Namibia towards economic prosperity, just a day before Geingob’s departure for medical treatment in the United States in late January 2024.

Nujoma reminisced about their first meeting in 1963 in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, describing Geingob as attentive, teachable, and highly consultative, with a strong emphasis on dialogue. He lauded Geingob’s contributions to Namibia’s development and his presence in international forums such as the United Nations, African Union, and SADC, noting that his absence would be profoundly felt.

The former president further emphasized that the hero’s funeral accorded to Geingob was a fitting recognition for a national hero and the third President of the Republic of Namibia. Geingob’s receipt of the Most Ancient Order of the Welwitschia Mirabilis, Namibia’s highest award, was also mentioned as a marker of his distinguished service to the nation.