Today marks exactly two years since the passing of Namibia's third President, the late Hage Geingob.

Many remember him as a leader whose approach to governance and his steadfast defence of press freedom shaped national discourse.

The late President Geingob's firm belief in democratic institutions and processes placed decision-making firmly within a participatory state framework.

He was known for engaging directly with opposing views, both within the government and in public – never shying away from disagreement, which he regarded as an essential element of governance.

As one of the principal drafters of Namibia's Constitution, Geingob viewed press freedom as fundamental to nation-building in a democratic society.

He consistently maintained that the media was not an adversary of the state and that criticism was an integral part of democracy, so long as it could be contested with facts through established platforms.

This belief was underscored by a bold declaration at the start of his presidency: "As long as he is President, no journalist will be arrested."

Often framed through flashing cameras and recording microphones, Geingob delivered punchy – sometimes unconventional – soundbites that delighted journalists and made headlines.

Yet, he was equally resolute in defending the media's right to hold public officials accountable, even when reporting challenged his own administration.

Two years after his passing, Hage Geingob's legacy is measured not only by the policies he championed but also by the democratic space he protected – where debate, dissent and inquiry were not only tolerated but also encouraged. 

His words continue to resonate in a continent where press freedom remains contested, reminding Namibians that democracy thrives when voices are free.