The recent verdict in the high-profile case of former US President Donald Trump has sent shockwaves around the world, sparking a global conversation about democracy, justice and the fight against impunity.
From the bustling cities of the United States to the distant shores of Africa, this landmark decision is being hailed as a beacon of hope and a harbinger of change.
In an eloquent and impassioned reflection, Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka captures the essence of this pivotal moment, drawing parallels to the struggles for equity and freedom that resonate deeply across continents. Read the statement below:
THE TRUMP VERDICT
For millions in anguished parts of the world, certainly for us in vast swathes of the African continent, this is daybreak on a new democratic promise. The warning is clear. sooner or later, the clamour of equity breaks down the stoutest gates on guard across the citadel of impunity,
The Trump debacle is a challenge also, a call to preparedness and steadfastness. Installed and putative fascisms – secular, military or theocratic – will extract from this only the wrong lessons, batten down and ‘crack down’ in self-protection. It is “Not yet Uhuru”, not anywhere close for humanity in our global village. Nonetheless, a celebration, albeit in a minor key, is justified.
p.s. Seeing that this trite, personal gesture attracted such inordinate attention at the time, let me answer the question before it is asked: Yes, I may choose to apply for restoration of my card of Permanent Residence, known as the Green Card. Possibly.
–Wole SOYINKA
A.R.I. (Permanent Resident)
Ogun State, Nigeria
May 30, 2024