Harry S. Truman said: “Men make history and not the other way round. In periods where there is no leadership, society stands still. Progress occurs when courageous and skillful leaders seize the opportunity to change things for the better.”
There have been leaders in history who have strove hard to make the world a better place to live in through change. Here are brief synopses of some of them:
QUEEN ELIZEBETH 1 (1533 – 1603)
She was one of the greatest rulers in the history of England. Most overseas explorations, notably by Sir Francis Drake and Sir Walter Raleigh were encouraged by her. She did not marry, and is credited for single-handedly ruling England.
ABRAHAM LINCOLN (1809 – 1865)
He is ranked among the top 3 greatest leaders in American history. He helped in the abolition of slavery and apartheid.
MAHATMA GHANDHI (1869 – 1948)
He was a prominent political leader in the Indian Independence struggle. His ideology of non-violence led to freedom from British rule. The Ghandhian ideology inspired many other leaders all over the world; most notable being Martin Luther King and Nelson Mandela.
MAO ZEDONG ( 1893 – 1976)
He united China into a single socialist state. Such was his influence that his theories, teachings and thoughts are known as Maoism, and are followed in some parts of the world till date.
Any leader who has the quest of pursuing change is a great visionary leader, and on this score I think President Mahama is in a class of his own. Ghana has been touted as the Rising Star of Africa, and I see her setting the pace towards change through the leadership of President John Dramani Mahama.
He has made two quotes on change which could easily compete among best quotes ever made in the history of Africa. Hear him: ” Ghana was created through change, a movement of the people in support of their collective vision. And now the time has come for us to move to the next level, and we must work together to be able to achieve this. Without sacrifice, effort and determination…there can be no progress.”
“We are in the midst of change. And can often feel uncomfortable, especially as it pulls us away from the systems and practices with which we have become familiar, but are no longer serving our needs efficiently. Without change, Ghana cannot grow.”
Wow, aren’t these awesome? You can love or loathe the young man from Bole, but I think he is a gift to this nation. He is gradually fixing the chronic problems of this nation – massive infrastructure development; something leaders of advance countries dread to dare because of its cost implications and its attendance shocks to a nation’s economy.
No matter how hard some people try to vilify, pillory and demonize him; one thing is clear: you cannot suppress the rays of a light – it will surely break-forth! Watch the young man From Bole! He is about to make history! Let’s give him the needed support. He needs our unrequited love.
