America’s Election In Retrospect

Tuesday, 4th November, 2008 marked an historical turn around in the socio-cultural and political spectrum of the world with particular  focus on the global democratic aphrodisiacs. The day marked the landslide victory of Senator Barack Obama of the Democratic Party over Republican Senator John Mccain. It was a thumb-up for democracy and all those who practice true democracy in the world. It was also a victory for “change” in  African countries and others where the golden euphoria of democracy is practiced in tears and wars.

First and foremost, the emergence and the acceptability of  Obama to lead the conglomeration of American citizens under the platform of the Democratic Party without regards to his African Iinage or race, colour of his hair, skin and eyes is a living testimony that the conceptualisation of “change” is well acknowledged by the good people of America. It also proves the traditional dogma of a typical American that no matter where you come from, creed and colour, the important question is “can you deliver”?

The question of how would one deliver is supplementary and does not come first. What is paramount is to discover the potentiality, desirous tendencies and creative ability to deliver and tackle the global challenges of America and the world such as financial crisis, climate change, terrorism, Middle East peace, political crisis in Africa etc. and the formulation of foreign policies that are endearing to global peace and cordial diplomatic relation. For one to demonstrate at least average proof of proper handling of the above challenges, is a clear license for nomination which the American people gave to Obama.

The aspect of money-bag politics and god-fatherism that usually bestrides the narrow wall of our democracy  in Nigeria did not apply in the Obama election. It is a big plus and a lesson to emulate. In the African context and tradition, materialism, societal status, political loyalty, financial obligations and many more are usually the criteria for nominations or selections.

The process of election that gives a reasonable length of time for campaign, allows and gives opportunity for every aspirant to exhaust and showcase his or her talent and the leadership qualities. Approximately, the United States devoted a period of almost one year to campaign. The rush in Africa and Nigeria especially, is a short-cut to our political bankruptcy. It does not allow for proper x-ray and assessment of potential leaders. This is our political myopicism.

Open debates which currently take place in virtually all the States in America and major cities in the on-going campaign among the US presidential candidates gives room for public participation, interactive session and good assessment which help to build confidence in whoever electorates want to vote for. Therefore, so many advantages are derived from this because issues on social, cultural, economic and political interest will be addressed and deliberated upon to the understanding of the electorates.

The electorates are given the opportunity to say what they want to say, hear what they want to hear and have a full sense of belonging and determine the kind of leadership they desire. In America, the electorate cherish the moment of campaign because it enables them to have a handshake or at least a glimpse of their would-be President, or governor. So many things are cherished – oratory power, charisma, social motivations etc This is one of the impressive gains of the US election which Nigeria and indeed the African democracy must learn to copy.

Besides, the respect for public opinion adds colour to American election. Every single opinion pool and the results are always regarded seriously. Public opinion acts as a basic catalyst and watchdog for proper conduct of the election.

Another aspect of the US election which gives credit to her democracy and open political challenges for Nigeria and African democracy  in general includes the process of nomination, funding of political parties, role of parties and public participation in election proper, as well as the independence of the electoral body.

The lessons are numerous. It goes from total transparency in nominations, equal  funding of the parties and clear definition of the roles of parties in the whole process.

Now, another round of the US election is around the corner. Another time to showcase another high level of intercontinental ballistic missile of political potency would by the end of this year engulf the global hemisphere and Nigeria will gaze, observe and watch with very rapt attention. But what lesson (s) can we deduce from the entire scene to better the lot of our nascent democracy is a question Nigerians, and especially our political elite must be ready to answer.

I hope the events of our past would be a light that will shine on the path of our present so that, the nutrient that always works for the success of the US election could be employed in our subsequent elections especially as we approach 2015 general election.

Tordee, a public affairs analyst, lives in Port Harcourt.

Manson B. Tordee