Nairobi, Kenya – In a powerful address at the annual event known as “The Platform,” renowned Kenyan Human Rights Activist and legal practitioner, Patrick Lumumba, did not mince words when he proclaimed that African nations are being governed by thieves. Speaking on Monday at the event organized by the senior pastor and founder of The Covenant Nation, Poju Oyemade, Lumumba voiced his concerns about the choices made by African citizens and the expectations they place on their elected leaders.
According to Lumumba, African citizens often elect leaders with questionable ethics and then expect them to exhibit the moral character of Jesus Christ. Drawing a parallel from the Bible, Lumumba cited the example of the crowd supporting the release of the notorious thief Barabbas while demanding the crucifixion of Jesus. He asserted that Africans seem to be inexplicably drawn to individuals with a dubious past.
“Africans, for some reason, are attracted to thieves. Africa, for some reason, is attracted to men and women who can’t serve, and when they are not served, they complain. When Africans are told to choose between Jesus of Nazareth or Barabbas, they say ‘release Barabbas,’ and when he behaves like Barabbas, they say, ‘Why are you not behaving like Christ?'” Lumumba passionately stated.
Patrick Lumumba, a former director of the Kenyan anti-corruption commission, went on to criticize the African electorate for choosing leaders who are not in the best interest of their nations. He argued that Africa’s potential could only be realized by selecting the most qualified individuals to serve in various capacities.
“Africa is only going to realize its potential when, by choice, we enable our best men and women to serve in different areas. Most of Africa is suffering because we do not have democracies. We have kakistocracies, and kakistocracy is government by our very worst. This is what we must deal with, and this is what we must say. Who do we elect into our public offices?” Lumumba asked the audience.
Lumumba’s remarks come at a time when the results of Nigeria’s recent presidential election, which declared Bola Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the winner, are being challenged by opposition parties. Additionally, Africa has witnessed a surge in military coups over the past three years, with military juntas toppling democratic governments in several African countries, including Mali, Burkina Faso, Guinea, Sudan, Niger Republic, and Gabon. These coups have cited rampant corruption, insecurity, and increased poverty as their reasons for intervention.
Patrick Lumumba’s frank assessment of African leadership has ignited a passionate debate across the continent, prompting many to reflect on the choices made in their respective nations. Africa continues to grapple with issues of governance, corruption, and leadership, and Lumumba’s words serve as a stark reminder of the need for change and accountability in the region.
