Ouseb’s death a great loss - Geingob
President Hage Geingob said veteran Julius ‘Akotib’ Ouseb’s death is a great loss to Namibians who shared his desire for a free and independent Namibia where citizens live in unity, dignity and equality.
Ouseb died on 29 March 2022 in Windhoek at the age of 76. In a speech read on his behalf at the burial service here on Saturday, Geingob said Ouseb was a fearless freedom fighter who dedicated his youth to fight for the freedom and liberation of his motherland from the yoke of colonialism and apartheid.
The president said Ouseb joined Swapo in 1973 after witnessing first-hand the injustices of apartheid, noting that as part of the party’s internal wing, he was very active in politicalprotestsandmobilisation campaigns in Windhoek, Walvis Bay and the wider country.
“We look back on a life welllived and celebrate a comrade of great principle and purpose, who was resolute in his commitment to the independence of the people of this country.
I hope that the family will take solace from the many heartfelt tributes that have been paid by those who loved, respected and admired him,” Geingob said.
The Head of State added that Ouseb is part of the coterie of heroic men and women of Namibia, who never wavered to sacrifice themselves in the face of overwhelming danger, noting that they risked their lives for the freedom and peace that all Namibians are enjoying today.
“Let us emulate Ouseb’s exemplary patriotic life, and continue to hold hands and work together as a united people, regardless of our class, tribe, region and religious or political affiliation,” Geingob stated.