Martin Endjala
Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa said the late Namibian head of state, Hage Geingob was an icon, a revolutionary and a guerilla leader.
“I join Namibia in saying goodbye to an icon, a revolutionary and a guerilla leader Dr Hage Geingob, a son of the soil whose impact transcended geographical boundaries and borders.
In honour of his memory and legacy, let us use this solemn occasion to recommit ourselves to continue building and modernising our respective nations, for a higher quality of living for our people in our regions and the African continent at large,” Mnangagwa said.
Mnangagwa also wished current Namibian President Nangolo Mbumba, success following his succession over the late Geingob’s vacant post, stemming that he is confident that the legacy of the late Geingob will continue to guide Mbumba in leading Namibia.
He reaffirmed Zimbabwe’s support to Namibia while extending best wishes for Namibia’s upcoming elections later this year.
Mnangagwa also reminded African leaders to build their nations, cementing no one will come and do it for them but them alone.
Meanwhile, Chinese Vice-Chairperson Jiang Zoujun of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference expressed his deepest condolences to the Namibian people and the Geingob family for their loss.
He said Geingob is an extraordinary statesman who has contributed to the liberation struggle and independence of Namibia.
He said for the past ten years under his leadership, Namibia has enjoyed peace, stability, development, sound economy and achievement of improvement of livelihoods.
Zoujun describes Geingob as a leader who was committed to promoting and advocating for international and African peace, a role which has earned him high praise both Internationally and in Africa.
He always promoted active solidarity and safeguarding of both International and African justice and fairness.
“President Geingob is a good friend of the Chinese people. In his lifetime, he attached great importance to developing relations with China, he took several visits to China to promote in-depth development of strategic comprehensive and cooperation between Namibia and China as well as China and Africa,” said Zoujun.
Zoujun stated that China still stands firm with Namibia during the dark times. He believes that Namibia will carry on the legacy of the late President, making strides in national development and revitalisation, and constantly scoring new achievements.
He reiterated that China will continue to deepen its bilateral relations and partnership between the Chinese people and Namibia.
