The Namibian public has been urged to uphold strict protocols during the state funeral of the country’s Founding President, Dr. Sam Nujoma, with authorities emphasizing that taking close-up photographs of the coffin is strictly prohibited.
Speaking on The Wheels of Justice, Brigadier General Fillimon Shafashike, Chief of Staff Policy and Plans at the Namibian Defence Force, stressed the importance of maintaining decorum throughout the proceedings. He warned that violating this protocol is a criminal offence, punishable by fines, imprisonment, or both.
"We request mourners to respect protocols, including refraining from taking pictures of the remains," Shafashike said, highlighting the need to preserve the dignity of the occasion.
Echoing these sentiments, Loide Shaparara, Deputy Chief Legal Advisor in the Office of the Attorney General, explained that photographing the remains infringes upon the right to privacy of both the deceased and his family.
The late Dr. Sam Nujoma, who was officially recognized as Namibia's Founding President and Father of the Nation by an Act of Parliament in December 2005, has been declared a national hero. In recognition of his exceptional contributions to the country, he will be laid to rest with full state honors at Heroes' Acre on March 1, 2025.
Mourners have been encouraged to pay their respects in a dignified manner that reflects the solemnity of the occasion. Authorities further clarified that drones are strictly prohibited at the state funeral, particularly when operated by unlicensed pilots.
As the nation prepares to bid farewell to one of its most iconic leaders, officials are calling for unity, respect, and adherence to established protocols to ensure the event honors Dr. Nujoma’s legacy.