What does the image of former President of Burkina Faso, Thomas Sankara, accompanied by his parliamentary peers, (who he insisted drive economy cars), say, in comparison to our modern day leaders across the African continent.
In Nigeria (for example) even if those in power do not wish to drive economy cars, perhaps they could set an excellent example of what it looks like to have faith in ones own country, by driving Innoson cars, which are made in Nigeria.
Now this is not a criticism on luxury cars, or even a suggestion that once in government, a man, or woman should face critique over how the spend their personal wealth...no...
Everyone likes nice things... absolutely everyone.
However, Thomas Sankara's message was clear.
'My government will be transparent with the economy.
My people, We are in this together'.
Thomas Sankara was a PanAfrican, a Marxist, with a desire to abolish the class system, overcome neoliberalism, and free his people from the chains that bind.
Thomas Sankara, the upright man - was, at heart... a romantic.. with a strong and beautiful vision, and sense of agency.
In comparison,( if we may for a moment) If low self esteem was a country, the mentality of many Nigerian leaders would insist that Nigeria take the title, sign up for life coaching asap, request a loan to pay for it, spend said loan, and never attend a single session.
This is 2020, and whilst other countries across the continent are developing real pride over home made produce
Nigerian leaders appear to view the suggestion of anything 'homemade' as a joke [click]
If a picture paints a thousand words
There still would not be enough words to express what was lost; the day Thomas Sankara was taken from us.
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