News / Africa
Obama takes a jibe at Africa's 'life presidents'
28 Jul 2015 at 13:08hrs | Views
United States president Barack Obama took a jibe at African leaders who want to be leaders for life saying no one should be president for life.
Speaking at the African Union Headquarters in Ethiopia on Tuesday, Obama said it was a great risk for leaders who refuse to step aside when their terms end.
He said if a president argues that he can't leave office because he's the only person who can keep the nation united, then that president has failed.
"I actually think I'm a pretty good president: I think if I ran, I could win, but I can't. Let me be honest with you - I just don't understand this. I am in my second term... I love my work, but under our constitution I cannot run again.
"I have to say Africa's democratic progress is also at risk from leaders who refuse to step aside when their terms end."
He said Africa does not need big men but strong institutions.
AU and Sadc chairman President Robert Mugabe who has been in power since 1980 stayed away from the meeting described AU chair Nkosazana Dlamini- Zuma as historic.
Speaking at the African Union Headquarters in Ethiopia on Tuesday, Obama said it was a great risk for leaders who refuse to step aside when their terms end.
He said if a president argues that he can't leave office because he's the only person who can keep the nation united, then that president has failed.
"I have to say Africa's democratic progress is also at risk from leaders who refuse to step aside when their terms end."
He said Africa does not need big men but strong institutions.
AU and Sadc chairman President Robert Mugabe who has been in power since 1980 stayed away from the meeting described AU chair Nkosazana Dlamini- Zuma as historic.
Source - Byo24News
