Nangolo Mbumba has assumed the position of Namibia’s new president mere hours after announcing the passing of his predecessor while serving as vice-president.

Hage Geingob, aged 82, succumbed to illness on Sunday while undergoing medical treatment in the capital, Windhoek.

A stalwart of Namibia’s struggle for independence, Mr. Geingob had publicly disclosed his battle with cancer last month.

Describing the late leader as a “liberation icon,” Mr. Mbumba has taken the oath of office as Geingob’s successor, BBC reported.

He is slated to fulfill the role until scheduled elections later this year.

Written by B.C. Begley