SWAKOPMUND - Erongo governor Neville Andre has rallied support for President Nangolo Mbumba, who took charge of the country soon after the death of president Hage Geingob on 4 February.

Geingob, who was in his final term in the presidency, lost his battle against cancer, and was laid to rest on Sunday morning.

Mbumba was vice president before Geingob’s death. He promised to pick up from where his predecessor left off and continue his legacy.  

He will now lead Namibia for the remainder of Geingob’s tenure (until March next year) as per the country’s constitutional provisions, and promised to uphold the country’s security, and promote education and health.

Andre told New Era yesterday afternoon that Namibians must continue to build on the unity and patriotism which was portrayed during the mourning period for the late president, adding that the same support and commitment must be shown towards Mbumba.

“We congratulate President Mbumba for taking up leadership and guiding the nation to pay their last respects to the late president. President Mbumba is tried and tested to lead this country, and I have no doubt that he will do a good job and will continue where the late president left,” Andre said.

He added that Mbumba had proven his commitment towards Namibia during his reign as the vice president, and thus has been part of the leadership team of the late president. 

“I have full confidence in President Mbumba, and believe that he will continue to grow the economy and fight for shared prosperity. Since taking office, President Mbumba has shown good leadership; his message to the nation has been encouraging. With certainty, our country is in good hands, and the entire leadership of the government is supporting him as well,” Andre said.

- edeklerk@nepc.com.na