Namibia recently experienced the sudden loss of its third president, Hage Geingob, raising questions about the country’s succession process. However, the constitutional provisions paved the way for a seamless transfer of power to the new President Nangolo Mbumba.
According to legal experts, the Namibian Constitution is explicit about the succession plan in the event of the president’s death, resignation, or removal from office. Article 29(4)(a) states that the vacant office of the President shall be filled according to the unexpired period of the term. In this case, the Vice President is next in line to succeed if the president’s position becomes vacant.
The 2014 constitutional amendment introduced the position of Vice President, further regulating the hierarchy of succession. The current interpretation dictates that the Vice President should step in as acting President until the expiration of the remaining portion of the deceased President’s term of office, rather than holding the title of President.
The experts also clarified that contrary to popular perception, there will not be a new presidential election within 90 days. The acting President will serve until March 2025, in accordance with Article 29(4)(a) of the Namibian Constitution.
The smooth transition of power in Namibia underscores the strength of its constitutional provisions in ensuring stability during times of leadership transition.
