NAMIBIA GEINGOB LEAVES BEHIND RICH MEDIA FREEDOM LEGACY INTRODUCTION N AMIBIA will be holding elections this year on 27 November, with the conspicuous absence of President Hage Geingob who passed away at the beginning of 2024. His death places Namibia’s future media landscape at risk if the incoming president is not as resolute as President Geingob in support of media freedom. The late president upheld the freedom of the media even when in conflict with the sector. His unwavering support is shown by the country’s positive global ranking. Under President Geingob, Namibia regained its status as the top-ranking African nation for press freedom, as revealed by the 2023 World Press Freedom Index (1) — a position it last held in 2021 before being surpassed by the Seychelles in the previous year. In response to Namibia’s return to the forefront of press freedom in Africa, the Geingob presidency reaffirmed its unwavering dedication to safeguarding press freedom, recognising its indispensable role in a vibrant democracy. AUTHOR: June Shimuoshili In a press statement in May 2023, the Presidency emphasised the vital function of the media in keeping the public informed and holding government institutions accountable. The peaceful and dignified transfer of power to Vice President Nangolo Mbumba, after the death of President Geingob was hailed across the political divide and is indicative of the country’s commitment to the spirit of constitutionalism (2), especially as the peaceful political climate was maintained throughout the country. (3) With the election date remaining the same, Namibia has been saved from dipping into uncertainty and unpredictable changes to the political calendar. (4) Namibia’s smooth leadership change after STATE OF PRESS FREEDOM IN SOUTHERN AFRICA 2023 62