Dili, February 12(AseanAll) — Timor-Leste President and Nobel Peace Laureate, J. Ramos-Horta has expressed his profound sadness at the passing of His Excellency Sam Nujoma, the Founding Father and the First President of the Republic of Namibia.
Dr. Sam Nujoma (1929-2025), the founding father and first president of Namibia, led his nation from colonial rule to independence through three decades of struggle. Born to a peasant family in Owambo, he rose from humble beginnings as a railway worker to become the leader of the South West Africa People’s Organization (SWAPO) in 1960. After leading the independence movement from exile and gaining crucial United Nations recognition, Nujoma returned to Namibia in 1989 to guide his country through its first democratic elections. He served as president from 1990 to 2005, establishing democratic institutions in the newly independent nation and leaving a lasting legacy as both a freedom fighter and statesman. Dr. Sam Nujoma passed away at the age of 95 on February 8th, 2025, in Windhoek, Namibia.
In a letter of condolence to the President of the Republic of Namibia, Mr. Nangolo Mbumba, on February 9th, 2025, Ramos-Horta stated:
“It was with deep sadness that I received the news of the passing of His Excellency, the Former President and Founding Father of the Republic of Namibia, Mr. Sam Nujoma. The history of Former President Sam Nujoma is inseparable from the heroic struggle of the Namibian People for self-determination and independence. As the leader of SWAPO and the first President of independent Namibia, his legacy is that of a true statesman, whose vision and commitment to freedom, justice, and national unity were instrumental in consolidating his country’s sovereignty and ensuring stability in the region.”
Ramos-Horta emphasized Former President Nujoma’s significant contribution to African liberation and global justice, stating: “His tireless dedication not only secured the emancipation of the Namibian People but also strengthened the ideals of peace and reconciliation, ensuring that Namibia became a model of unity and progress for the African continent and the world.”
The President extended his heartfelt condolences to President Mbumba, the Government and People of Namibia, as well as the former President’s wife, Mrs. Kovambo Nujoma, and his entire family. President Ramos-Horta expressed that while they joined the Namibian people in mourning, they also celebrated President Nujoma’s remarkable life and lasting legacy, noting that his vision and leadership would continue to guide Namibia’s future and inspire generations ahead.
