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Death of an African 'Champion of Democracy'
August 19, 2008 4:21 PM
Dana Hughes is an ABC News reporter covering Africa based in Nairobi, Kenya
In Africa, leaders who not only talk about democracy but actually adhere to its principles seem to be few and far between. One of those leaders, Zambian President Levy Mwanawasa, died today. President Bush expressed sadness at Mwanawasa’s death, calling him “a champion of democracy in his own country and throughout Africa.”
During the recent Zimbabwe election crisis, Mwanawasa was one the most outspoken and harshest critics of President Robert Mugabe and his regime. Serving as the chairman of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), President Mwanawasa repeatedly called Mugabe’s behavior unacceptable, which is a big risk in Africa.
Leaders in Africa historically do not like to criticize other African leaders, especially those who are targeted by the West, for fear of being labeled “colonialists,” or worse, have fingers pointed at them over their own leadership failings. Mugabe knows this and often uses the argument of African solidarity, along with threats to expose other leaders, as a way of deflecting criticism against him. But Mwanawasa, elected democratically to two terms, refused to buy into that argument.
He was part of a new crop of African leaders, including Kenya’s Prime Minister Raila Odinga, Liberia’s President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and Botswana’s President Festus Mogae, who stand up to oppression, regardless of the color of the oppressor. During Mwanawasa's terms in office, Zambia experienced unprecedented economic growth and political stability, and was considered one of Africa’s “success stories” by the West.
In Africa’s ongoing struggle against corruption, election fraud and poverty, for many Africans, including Kenyans, Mwanawasa's passing is seen as a huge loss, not just for Zambia but for the growing democracy movement on the continent.
August 19, 2008 in Dana Hughes | Permalink | User Comments (3)
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It is a pity to see the great Levy gone, everybody agrees that he is an honest and human leader, who puts his country first. But for sure he has left behind many good leaders who will continue the fight for Africa's liberty and freedom. With the support of the US that dream of seeing Africa playing a role at international level will become true.
Posted by: BKMC | Aug 19, 2008 4:55:28 PM
A true statesman who stood much taller in character and foresight than most African politicians. He showed honor and honestly despite the cowardice of other so-called African leaders. Zambia and the free nations of the world will miss him!
Posted by: Derek | Aug 19, 2008 5:04:53 PM
The loss of a statesman of the calibre of President Mwanawasa is a sad one, especially given the goings-on in Zimbabwe and SADC. But he leaves all democratic loving people, particularly, a rich legacy. The time to hobnob and romantice with dictators is over. RIP President Mwanawasa, the continent is less rich without you.
Posted by: Bantusapiens | Aug 19, 2008 5:53:22 PM
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