For far too long, Western governments have cuddled and praised African tyrants even when everything they do and stand for is against the Western definition of democracy. On the other hand, dictators from the Middle East are not indulged with the same policies. They are offered tough love.
French President Nicolas Sarkozy and Barack Obama both considered Africa as high profile agendas before and after their elections. I am yet to really see this in action. I do not blame either of them for the progress made or otherwise. Surely, I know none of them was prepared for the Greece problems, healthcare battle and backlash from corporate bailout. These circumstances presented them with more pressing priorities than addressing the problems of Africa, so long ago judged unimportant to global affairs.
I admire the manner both Western leaders rebuke dictators and governments who place themselves on the axes of evil. But these 'bad guys' only have to worry if they are not on the African continent. African dictators enjoy rest, peace and comfort that are difficult to describe. In reality, many of Africa’s most repressive dictators have been friends of the West.
In fact, France actually has about 60,000 troops on the African continent most of who are protecting dictators and driving out their rivals, as a result of defense agreement France signed with some countries. Why did President Sarkozy endorsed Ali Bongo to succeed his father in Gabon's disputed presidential election?
Tell me who among these did not (or does not) have a powerful western friend: Robert Mugabe ((Zimbabwe), General Sani Abacha, (Nigeria), Idi Amin, (Uganda), P.W. Botha (South Africa), General Samuel Doe (Liberia), Francois Duvalier (Haiti), Jean Claude Duvalier (Haiti),Mobutu Sese Seko (Zaire), Charles Taylor (Liberia)
At the inauguration of President Barrack Obama, he issued a stern warning to those who cling to power through deceit and corruption and the silencing of dissent. One would expect such a warning to have shivers in Mugabe's spine, and turns Mr. Museveni face red. But it did touch them, because dictators on the African continent know that no one will take them seriously, and their issue won’t even be on the table.
When are we going to see the World Powers hit Pres. Mugabe and Museveni with the same rod that is used on Iranian president or Saddam Hussein.
