Britain’s King Charles has paid tribute to Namibia’s former president, Sam Nujoma, who passed away at the age of 95, calling his “lifelong commitment to freedom and democracy” inspirational and acknowledging that his “contribution to history was immense.”
Nujoma, who played a pivotal role in leading Namibia to independence from apartheid South Africa in 1990, served as the country’s first president for 15 years. His death was announced on Saturday by current Namibian President Nangolo Mbumba.
In a statement released on Sunday evening, King Charles expressed his deep sorrow over the loss. “My wife and I were profoundly saddened to learn of the death of former President Sam Nujoma today,” he said. “President Nujoma’s contribution to history was immense, through his leadership of the long struggle for independence, and his subsequent service of 15 years as the Founding President of the Republic of Namibia.”
Reflecting on Namibia’s place in the Commonwealth, Charles also recalled his mother, Queen Elizabeth II’s visit to the country in 1991. “I recall with particular gratitude how much Her late Majesty The Queen enjoyed Her State Visit to Namibia in 1991, hosted so graciously by President Nujoma,” he remarked.
He continued, “His lifelong commitment to freedom and democracy, overcoming so much adversity on that journey, was truly inspirational. It is a testament to the legacy of Dr. Nujoma that the Republic of Namibia, as a valued member of the Commonwealth of Nations, still maintains and embodies the values of peace and democracy which its Founding President so keenly promoted and protected.”
The King concluded by extending his deepest sympathy to Nujoma’s family, especially his wife Kovambo Nujoma, and the people of Namibia during this difficult time. “Our deepest sympathy and prayers are with the former First Lady, Kovambo Nujoma, their family, and the people of the Republic of Namibia at this dreadfully sad time,” he said.
