Namibia is in mourning as President Hage Geingob, a revered figure in the nation’s history, has passed away at the age of 82. The news comes less than three weeks after it was revealed that Geingob would undergo treatment for cancer. He died on Sunday at Lady Pohamba Hospital in Windhoek, the capital, surrounded by his wife and children.
Geingob’s health struggles were publicly acknowledged last month when his office announced that he had commenced treatment following the discovery of cancerous cells during a routine medical examination. The subsequent announcement did not disclose specific details about his diagnosis but assured that Geingob would continue fulfilling his presidential duties.
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Following this revelation, it was disclosed that the Namibian President would travel to the United States for medical care and return to Namibia on February 2. Geingob, who served a 12-year term as prime minister, had a history of health issues predating his presidency.
In 2013, the anti-apartheid activist-turned-politician underwent brain surgery, and the following year, he revealed his successful battle against prostate cancer. Last year, Geingob disclosed that he had undergone aortic surgery in neighboring South Africa.
Namibia, having gained independence from South Africa in 1990, is scheduled to hold presidential and parliamentary elections in November. Geingob, ineligible for re-election due to constitutional limits on presidential terms, has been a pivotal figure in Namibian politics.
The ruling SWAPO Party’s presidential candidate, Nandi-Ndaitwah, stands as a potential trailblazer, poised to become the country’s first female head of state if elected. As Namibia reflects on the loss of President Hage Geingob, the nation faces a period of mourning, paying tribute to a leader whose contributions have left an indelible mark on the country’s journey.
