Former Namibian Defence Force (NDF) chief, lieutenant general Solomon “Jesus” Hawala has died at the age of 89.
Hawala died on Monday in a northern Namibian hospital after a prolonged illness.
Hawala was a veteran of the People’s Liberation Army of Namibia (PLAN), Swapo’s military wing, and is regarded as one of the founders of the NDF.
He served as the NDF’s army commander from 1990, following Namibia’s independence, and became chief of the NDF in 2000.
He held the position until his retirement in October 2006, succeeding founding commander lieutenant general Dimo Hamaambo.
In 2004, the late founding president Sam Nujoma awarded him the Grand Commander of the Order of the Namibian Eagle (First Class) for his service.
After retiring, Hawala lived a quiet life away from public attention.
