Nelson Mandela, Barack Obama have many similarities

By B Amaya

Nairobi, Kenya: Mandela’s death has kindled the talk on who else among Africans can match him. Fortunately, US president Barack Obama seems to walk the same path.

The son of Kogelo just like Mandela has made history as the first man of black decent to be elected the president of the US.

Mandela on his part became the first black man to occupy the South African State House. Madela took over the leadership of highly polarised state and united them following decades of white minority rule.

Similarly, Obama assumed office at a time when the US was more divided than any other time in its history. The race issue was at its peak when Obama took over.

Obama is reputed for his oratory prowess. To date, very few US leaders can equal his record. Mandela equally was a talented leader. Madiba’s speeches are rated in the league of the world’s greatest.

Above all, the two leaders preached tolerance among people and nations. Madiba pursued the philosophy of reconciliation and equality of all people irrespective of colour and creed. In the same vein Obama believes in mutual respect and tolerance.

Finally, both men ascended to power at a time of huge national and global challenges.