King Charles has paid tribute to Namibia’s former president Sam Nujoma, who has died aged 95. The monarch described Nujoma as “truly inspirational” for his dedication to democracy and freedom.
Nujoma led Namibia to independence from apartheid South Africa in 1990 and served as its first president for 15 years. He was a key figure in the country’s transition to democracy after German colonial rule.
The King, who is also the head of the Commonwealth, said Nujoma’s legacy remains “deeply woven into Namibia’s path to peace and democracy”. He recalled his mother Queen Elizabeth II’s visit to Namibia in 1991, which was hosted by Nujoma.
Nujoma was praised for fostering national reconciliation and healing divisions created by apartheid-era policies. However, he was also criticized for suppressing dissent during his years in exile.
The South African president Cyril Ramaphosa described Nujoma as an “extraordinary freedom fighter” who played a key role in the liberation of both Namibia and South Africa from apartheid.
Source: https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/africa/charles-namibia-sam-nujoma-b2695061.html