- Says Africans are somehow attracted to thieves
By Mark Mayah
Former director of Kenya’s anti-corruption commission, Professor Patrick Lumumba, has lamented the leadership issues in Africa, stressing that the continent is suffering from kakistocracy (a society governed by its least suitable or competent citizens).
Speaking at The Platform’s Independence Anniversary event on Monday, Lumumba stated that Africans, for some reason, are attracted to ‘thieves and individuals who cannot serve.’
He said, “Africa is suffering because we do not have democracy, but kakistocracy, where our very worst govern us. This is what we have to deal with, and we must note who we elect into our public offices.
“When you allow Hyenas to take care of goats, why should you be surprised when the goats are eaten? Africa is only going to realise its potential in all areas when, by dint of choice, we enable and allow our best men and women to serve in different areas.
“Countries like Singapore, Malaysia, and Japan made a conscious decision on the path of electing their leaders. We often talk about the leaders, but the followers elect them. Africans are somehow attracted to thieves and people who cannot serve, then act surprised when the people they elect behave like ‘thieves.’
Lumumba also stated that Africans must urgently deal with identity crises and define who they are.
His words: “In 1996, Thabo Mbeki talked about an African. Who is an African? The Chinese, Indonesians, and Koreans defined themselves. We must define ourselves and begin to believe in our institutions.”
