Nangolo Mbumba has been sworn in as the new President of the Republic of Namibia, hours after the death of Hage Geingob.
The former Vice President was sworn in on Sunday, alongside the new Vice President, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah.
Geingob died in the early hours of Sunday in a hospital in Windhoek at the age of 82.
The new leader of the country, in his acceptance speech, paid tribute to the late President and called for calm.
Below is the full acceptance speech by President Nangolo Mbumba.
Fellow Namibians.
I accept with humility the noble assignment bestowed upon me, that of appointment as the President of the Republic of Namibia, in accordance with Article 29 read together with Article 34 of the Namibian Constitution.
I take on this heavy mantle, cognizant of the weight of this responsibility, to serve all the people of the Republic of Namibia with the utmost dedication and commitment, in the service of all citizens of the Namibian House.
I undertake to continue building on the excellent foundation established by the Founding Father, Dr. Sam Shafiishuna Nujoma, the Former President Dr.Hifikepunye Pohamba, and our beloved President, Dr. Hage G. Geingob – May His Soul Rest in Peace. [Let us please observe a minute of silence in his Honour].
The Legacy Continues.
It is poignant and reassuring to note that today, even in this time of loss, our Nation remains calm and stable. This is owing to the visionary leadership and foresight of President Geingob, who was the chief architect of the Namibian Constitution and the champion of our Governance Architecture, based on stable Processes, Systems and institutions, that are guiding us today.
Fellow Namibians, as I assume the Office of the President, a vacancy is created in the Office of the Vice President. After due consultations, I have the pleasure to announce the appointment of Honourable Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah as Vice President of the Republic of Namibia, with immediate effect.
During this difficult period of mourning, I urge all Namibians to remain united and to keep the bereaved Family in our prayers.
Long Live the Republic of Namibia, Long Live.
I thank you!