Sam Nujoma, the founding father of Namibia and the country’s first democratically elected president, has passed away at the age of 95. His death was confirmed by Namibia’s presidential office on Sunday.
Nujoma played a pivotal role in Namibia’s fight for independence from South Africa’s apartheid regime, leading the country to freedom on March 21, 1990. He was later honored with the title of “Father of the Namibian Nation” in 2005 through a parliamentary law. Nujoma served as president from 1990 until 2005, during which he established democratic institutions and laid the foundation for national unity.
Born in 1929 in northwestern Namibia, Nujoma’s early life was spent tending cattle before becoming politically active. His resistance against apartheid began while working on the South African railways, and he later became the leader of the Ovambo People’s Organization, which evolved into a liberation movement. In 1966, he led a guerrilla war against South African forces, culminating in Namibia’s independence.
Despite his significant contributions, Nujoma’s leadership faced criticism, particularly regarding his stance on media freedom, LGBTQ+ rights, and a controversial constitutional change in 1998 that allowed him to run for a third term. His legacy remains a subject of both praise and debate.
Liberty News’ international correspondent states that Nujoma’s death has prompted tributes from leaders across Africa, with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa acknowledging his key role in both Namibia’s and South Africa’s liberation struggles. Nujoma had been in ill health for some time and was receiving medical treatment prior to his passing.
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