It is hard to believe that more than a year has passed since Namibia’s third president, Dr Hage Geingob, passed away unexpectedly. 

His death is Namibia’s loss, and certainly a loss that I personally feel every day. 

When I worked as his economic advisor in State House, the former president inspired, challenged and helped me grow. 

Since his passing last year, his legacy has come into focus more sharply each day. 

The president’s work on creating the Namibian Constitution should be specifically focused on. As sad and impactful as the president’s passing was, the Namibian Constitution is robust. It was created for exactly eventualities such as the passing of the Head of State. On 9 February, Namibia commemorates the signing of its Constitution in 1990. 

I believe this is the perfect opportunity to celebrate one aspect of Dr Geingob’s vast legacy.

A major part of Dr Geingob’s legacy is his influence on Namibia’s Constitution as chairman of the Constituent Assembly, which drafted the Namibian Constitution. As Namibia was taking its first steps to freedom and independence, the country required a Constitution. This new Constitution needed to be robust. It would, at the same time, need to reflect the Land of the Brave’s democratic and unwavering values. Ensuring and solidifying Namibia as a free and democratic state is something that so many have fought for and given their lives to. The late president’s impact continued far beyond being the chairperson of the Constituent Assembly. As Namibia’s prime minister on two occasions and president for two terms, he helped formulate and implement Namibian laws. 

His sharp and brilliant mind shaped the free and independent Namibia we call home.

On 4 February 2024, just hours after Geingob’s passing, Namibians witnessed the Constitution in action as a smooth legal transition of power was facilitated. Every eventuality was conceived of and embedded in the Constitution, drafted in 1990. The strength and wording of the Constitution ensured that democracy and the democratic process prevailed. This is not something we as citizens should take for granted. The death of the Head of State often leads to turmoil, political and socio-economic instability – and in some cases, violence. 

The fact that Namibia did not face any of this is certainly part of Dr Hage’s legacy.

At its core, Namibia’s Constitution, and Dr Geingob’s philosophy and belief, were that Namibians from all walks of life could have faith in a justice system that caters to all, cares for all, and offers protection to all. 

The late president lived his life endeavouring to ensure those very considerations became reality. 

Those of us left behind are reaping the rewards, and are grateful for his legacy.

As we mark one year since Dr Geingob’s passing, I wanted to explain to Namibians why his legacy is so important. Why do we talk about a ‘giant’ having fallen, and why Namibia and Africa will miss the brilliance of our late president? I could not find a better day to honour his legacy than Namibia’s Constitution Day. Rest in Power, Mr President!

*Dr John Steytler is the CEO of the Development Bank of Namibia. He writes in his personal capacity.