EDITORIAL: The Geingob we miss

They say you don’t realise what you have until it’s gone. Many of us are guilty of taking people for granted – assuming that our babysitters, co-workers or even parents will always be there, until life proves otherwise.

Only when that void strikes do we truly grasp the impact they had on our lives.

Today, Namibians are reminded of 4 February 2024 – the day former president Hage Geingob left us. His passing marked not just the end of an era, but also the beginning of a new chapter in which his absence is deeply felt.

Geingob was not perfect. He had his flaws – his governance, like any other, was marked by controversies, miscalculations and missteps. Many questioned his handling of the economy, the ballooning public debt, and the rampant unemployment crisis that continues to haunt Namibia.

But he had his strengths, too. He was a champion of press freedom, recognising that a free press is essential to democracy. He welcomed criticism, engaged openly with the media and did not seek to silence dissenting voices. Today, state media journalists face suspensions and press freedom is under increasing strain.

One of Geingob’s most undeniable strengths was his grasp of both local and international affairs. He understood the intricacies of geopolitics, economic diplomacy and pan-Africanism, advocating for Namibia with a bold and articulate voice.

At home, he championed inclusive politics, recognising the need for a broad-based approach to leadership. Whether it was in cabinet appointments or his public engagements, he sought to give all Namibians a seat at the table.

May he be remembered for the man he truly was – flawed but formidable, imperfect but irreplaceable.