Namibia’s President Hage Geingob passes away at 82

Geingob, also a former 12-year prime minister, grappled with health issues predating his 2014 presidency

Namibian President Hage Geingob passed away at the age of 82 within three weeks of disclosing his forthcoming cancer treatment, his office announced Sunday.

Geingob succumbed to cancer at Lady Pohamba Hospital in Windhoek, accompanied by his family, as conveyed by acting president Nangolo Mbumba in a statement shared on Geingob’s official Facebook page. 

“The Namibian nation mourns the loss of an esteemed public servant, a symbol of the liberation struggle, the primary architect of our constitution, and the foundational figure of the Namibian governance,” Mbumba expressed.

Urging the nation to maintain composure, he added: “During this profound grief, I urge the public to remain composed as the government addresses essential state arrangements, preparations and other formalities. Further details will follow.” 

Last month, Geingob’s office disclosed the beginning of his cancer treatment after the detection of “cancerous cells” during a routine colonoscopy and gastroscopy.

Though lacking specifics about the African leader’s condition, the announcement asserted his commitment to fulfilling presidential duties. Subsequently, it was revealed that Geingob would seek medical care in the United States, returning to Namibia on Feb. 2. 

Geingob, also a former 12-year prime minister, grappled with health issues predating his 2014 presidency. In 2013, the ex-anti-apartheid activist underwent brain surgery, later disclosing his triumph over prostate cancer in 2014.

Last year, Geingob disclosed an aortic surgery in South Africa. 

Namibia, having gained independence in 1990, is set for presidential and parliamentary elections in November. Geingob’s constitutional limitation prevented his reelection, paving the way for SWAPO Party’s presidential candidate, Nandi-Ndaitwah, to potentially become the first female head of state if elected. 

 Source: Newsroom