Obama's Inauguration and Africa's Renaissance

Published on 20th January 2009

Obama's inauguration as the 44th President of the United States of America is not only an important phase in the realization of Martin Luther King Jr.'s dream but also a key milestone in inter racial relations globally. Obama's victory is a true testimony to the fact that many talented individuals worldwide have been held back from success simply because of prejudice and unequal opportunity at the market place.  

 

The President Elect in United States of America had to wait for over 2 months to be sworn in. During this waiting period, collegiate votes were used to determine the final outcome, the President Elect had time to pick his team, reach out to his opponents and develop a bipartisan outlook on key American policy issues. Compare this with African type of democracy where leaders simply get a clique of friends to swear them in to power by night, and/or even before all the results are tallied. U.S.A democratic checks and balances offer vital lessons for Africa. The President is a servant of the people, he is not God!

 

Obama is a product of free enterprise built on a firm institutional framework. This system made it possible for him to package and market himself to the electorate. Obama's elevation should be a wake up call to Africans that we need to strengthen our institutions and respect the voters' choice. We too in Africa could transcend the present and position ourselves for a better future.  History has shown us that reformers may be vilified or even assassinated but, you can't kill their dream.  

 

We at The African Executive join the rest of the world in wishing President Barack Obama a fruitful tenure. May this serve as the beginning of Africa's renaissance!


This article has been read 1,505 times
COMMENTS