Niël Terblanché
During a gathering of Namibia’s most esteemed legal minds, the country’s legal fraternity recently came together to pay homage to President Hage Geingob’s indelible impact on the nation’s legal landscape.
At the forefront of this tribute were commendations from Supreme Court Judge Dave Smuts, Minister of Justice Yvonne Dausab, former Ombudsman John Walters, and the Secretary to the National Assembly, Tousy Naumab.
They reflected on President Geingob’s fundamental contributions to justice and law development, highlighting his steadfast dedication to the judiciary’s independence, the inclusivity of lawmaking, and the promotion of transparency and accountability in governance.
Supreme Court Judge Dave Smuts, a figure synonymous with the pursuit of justice in Namibia, praised President Geingob for his unwavering commitment to the judiciary’s autonomy.
Justice Smuts stressed that under Geingob’s leadership, the judiciary has been fiercely protected from external pressures, ensuring that the scales of justice in Namibia remain balanced and impartial.
He added that the safeguarding of the judiciary’s independence is not just a testament to Geingob’s respect for democratic principles but also to his understanding of its critical role in maintaining social order and protecting citizens’ rights.
Justice Smuts lauded President Geingob for his instrumental role in drafting and enacting constitutional safeguards that fortify fundamental freedoms, such as the presumption of innocence and the right to legal representation.
He said these provisions are cornerstones of Namibia’s legal framework, offering a bulwark against injustice and ensuring that the legal system remains accessible and fair to all citizens.
Minister of Justice, Yvonne Dausab paid tribute to President Geingob’s inclusive approach to lawmaking.
The minister said that Geingob’s tenure has been marked by efforts to craft laws that reflect the diverse tapestry of Namibian society, aiming to bridge gaps and foster a sense of social justice across the nation.
She added that this inclusivity in legal processes emphasizes Geingob’s vision of a harmonious society, where laws act as vehicles for societal improvement rather than tools of division.
Former Ombudsman John Walters commended President Geingob for his contributions to enhancing transparency and accountability within the governance framework.
He said that Geingob’s initiatives have been vital in promoting a culture of openness, where government actions are subject to scrutiny, and public officials are held to account.
According to Walters, transparency is crucial for building trust between the government and the people it serves, ensuring that governance is seen as a cooperative endeavour rather than a top-down imposition.
Tousy Naumab, Secretary to the National Assembly, stressed the late President’s dedication to ensuring that legal instruments serve the broader interests of all Namibians.
She said that under Geingob’s guidance, the legislative process has been characterized by a focus on equity, with laws designed to uplift the marginalized and ensure that every Namibian can partake in the nation’s prosperity.
Naumab added that Geingob’s legacy in the realm of law and justice is a testament to his profound commitment to the principles of democracy, fairness, and equity.
She said his work has not only strengthened Namibia’s legal infrastructure but has also laid the groundwork for a more just and equitable society.
The prominent legal minds all agreed that the foundations laid by President Geingob’s legacy will serve as a guiding light, inspiring future generations to navigate the complexities of the 21st century and to continue the work of building a nation that upholds the dignity and rights of all its citizens.
