Namibia Mourns Sam Nujoma: Can SWAPO Withstand the Loss of Its Political Anchor?

[PODCAST]

Sam Nujoma, the fiery, white-bearded liberation icon who led Namibia to independence from apartheid South Africa in 1990 and served as its first president for 15 years, earning the title Father of the Nation, has died at the age of 95. His passing was announced on Sunday by President Nangolo Mbumba, who confirmed that Nujoma died on Saturday night after being hospitalized in the capital, Windhoek. Even after stepping down from active leadership, Nujoma remained the political center of gravity within the ruling SWAPO party, skillfully navigating factional tensions and breakaway movements from behind the scenes. His final act of influence was to push for the election of a female party president—a decision that was met with resistance by some, but nevertheless, held sway. Now, with his absence, has that political center collapsed? And can SWAPO withstand the shifting tides? for an analysis on in this,  we spoke to political commentator Rui Tyitende.