I am saddened to learn of the passing of Sam Nujoma, Namibia’s independence leader and founding president. His unwavering commitment, sheer grit, and tenacity of purpose freed his nation from the grip of apartheid and colonial rule, leading it to a hard fought and long overdue independence in 1990. He has rightfully earned his place among Africa’s most consequential nation-builders. Malaysia recalls with a sense of quiet fulfilment its role in the United Nations Transition Assistance Group (UNTAG), which oversaw Namibia’s elections and transition to self-rule. Then, now, and always, we stand in solidarity with the people of Namibia. We join them in mourning a leader whose fiery conviction secured freedom, yet whose pragmatism forged a path to reconciliation and progress. Photo : Getty Images