The aftermath of the United States Presidential election has continued to elicit reverberating reactions across the globe. Recall that candidate of the Democratic Party, Joe Biden had garnered 290 electoral votes to defeat the candidate of the Republican Party and incumbent President, Donald Trump, who secured 214 electoral votes, according to the Associated Press. The electoral commission stipulates that a candidate who secures 270 electoral votes is the winner of the coveted seat.
However, President Trump is yet to concede defeat and has opted for legal processes after he alleged fraud in the electoral processes. He becomes the second American president to refuse to concede defeat after John Adams in 1800.
Reacting to the election, political experts who were on Monday featured on NTA’s popular programme, Good Morning Nigeria, expressed diverse views on the implications of Biden’s emergence and Trump’s defeat, especially on the African continent.
The experts, Prof of Political Science and International Relations, Nasarawa State University, Jideofor Adibe, Ambassador Akin fayomi, Prof of Political Science Sam Egwu and Prof Khalifa Dikwa argued and unanimously agreed that the emphasis of most American presidents is based on domestic agenda, noting that Joe Biden may not be an exception.
Prof Jideofor, who highlighted Biden’s thematic focus – covid-19, economy, racial inequality, and climate change, noted that Africa will benefit from the President-elect’s agenda in the area of climate change.
On the election process, the don said it’s not a done deal until the Senate and Congress certify the election on the 6th of January, stressing that “if they fail to certify, it will trigger a constitutional process and the next in line to succession which is Nancy Pelosi – the speaker of the house of representatives will become the acting president because there is no provision in their constitution for extending the time”.
On his part, Amb. Akin Fayomi who was the Minister/Head of Political Affairs at the High Commission of Nigeria, London from July 2004 to March 2007, stated that the outcome of the election is an indication that Americans were not happy with Trump’s ‘divisive style of leadership,’ adding that ‘I was surprised by his number of votes – I expected a landslide win for Biden. Trump’s years were quite ignoble – he made political enemies – he was never a diplomat – everybody is happy to see him out’. He succinctly remarked that Trump’s administration had adverse effects on many countries particularly African countries, expressing optimism about Biden’s tenure.
Prof Khalifa Dikwa who faulted the United States Electoral College averred that it was too soon to congratulate Biden. ‘There is nothing like true democracy when college votes will win an election and popular votes will not win’. He explained that Trump camp into power to fight the ‘establishment’ which was too strong, stressing that the President was frank in addressing issues that militate against the nation.
Dikwa further noted that ‘this is the time for the rest of the world to look inward and stand on their own’.
In his remarks, Prof Sam Egwu said ‘The survival of democracy is built on democratic institutions, the power of civil societies is very important. The Americans spoke loud and clear about Trump. Trump showed that democracy can die midway even if civil societies and democratic institutions are strong’.
To watch the interview, click on https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fbWHnlelg60&feature=youtu.be
