Connect with us

Politics

Democracy:A Common Value of Humanity 

Published

on

Democracy:A Common Value of Humanity 

Democracy:A Common Value of Humanity 

By: H.E. Amb. CUI Jianchun

It is solemnly appealed by the Chinese President Xi Jinping during the General Debate of this year’s UN General Assembly that, the international community “need to advocate peace, development, equity, justice, democracy and freedom, which are the common values of humanity, and reject the practice of forming small circles or zero-sum games”.

Indeed, as being recognized widely, democracy is a common value of humanity. The world is richly diversified, so does the democracy. Rooted in history, culture and tradition, it takes diverse forms and develops along the paths chosen by different peoples based on their exploration and innovation. Whether a country is democratic depends on whether its people are truly the masters of the country. There is no fixed model of democracy, which manifests itself in many forms. Assessing the myriad political systems in the world against a single yardstick is in itself undemocratic.

Democracy is also an ideal that has always been cherished by China and its people. More than two thousand years ago, the ancient Chinese began to explore the concept that people are the foundation of a country. Their ideas contained the seeds of what we know today as democracy. Since its founding in 1921, the Communist Party of China (CPC), which is the governing party in China, has taken the wellbeing of Chinese people and the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation as its abiding goals, and has made continuous efforts to ensure the people’s status as masters of the country.

The essence of China’s democracy is that people are masters of the country. Since the 18th CPC National Congress in 2012, with a deeper understanding of China’s path to democracy and the political system, the CPC has developed the Whole-Process People’s Democracy as a key concept and striven to translate it and relevant democratic values into effective institutions and concrete actions.

Also Read: NO ACCIDENTAL DISCHARGE IN NSCDC ADMINISTRATIVE MANUAL…

The whole-process people’s democracy in China, which has distinctive Chinese characteristics, exemplifies common values and contributes China’s ideas and solutions to the political progress of humanity. It is a complete system with supporting mechanisms and procedures, and has been fully tested through wide participation.

Firstly, insist on the system of people’s congress. It is China’s fundamental political system. People exercise state power effectively through people’s congresses; people’s congresses exercise state power collectively on behalf of the people. The National People’s Congress (NPC) is the highest organ of state power. Local people’s congresses at all levels are local agencies of state power. All administrative, supervisory, judicial, and procuratorial organs of the countries are created by the people’s congresses, to which they are responsible and by which they are supervised. This system makes extensive democracy possible by empowering people’s congresses at all levels, to ensure that the people hold and exercise state power.

Secondly, reinforce the system of multiparty cooperation and political consultation under the leadership of the CPC. It is a basic element of China’s political framework, a new model growing out of the soil of China, also learning from others. Notwithstanding outsiders’ misunderstanding, China’s political party system is not a system of one-party rule, nor is it one in which multiple parties vie for power and govern in turn. In addition to the CPC, there are eight other political parties. These parties accept CPC’s leadership, and cooperate closely with the CPC and function as its advisors and assistants. The Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) serves as a key element of the multiparty mechanism. This system unites all political parties towards a common goal, effectively mitigating the risks of inadequate oversight in one-party rule, and the problems of continual transfers of governing parties and destructive competition in multiparty political systems. Such a kind of consultative democracy is a unique feature of China’s democracy.

Thirdly, improve the system of regional ethnic autonomy. China is a unified multiethnic country. This system, which is also a basic political system, means that areas with large ethnic minority populations can practice regional autonomy, establish autonomous organs, and exercise the power of self-governance under the unified leadership of the country. It provides institutional and policy guarantees to ensure that ethnic minority citizens enjoy widely social, economic and democratic rights.

Fourthly, conduct the system of community-level self-governance. This system is represented by villagers’ autonomy, urban residents’ autonomy, and employees’ congresses. It has strengthened the public’s ability to understand and practice democracy, demonstrating that China’s democracy is extensive and genuine.

I should say that democracy is not a prerogative of a certain country or a group of countries, but a universal right of all peoples. A basic criterion of democracy should be about the people, such as whether the people have the right to govern their country, whether their needs are met, and whether they have a sense of fulfillment and happiness. If the people are only awakened when casting their votes and sent back to hibernation when the voting is over, this is not a genuine democracy.

Democracy and national governance operate in parallel. One essential feature of a good democracy is that it will promote sound governance and boost national development. Democracy in China means people-centered development that fully mobilizes the initiative of the people, relies on their strength, and ensures that all share in the benefits. This is the key to sound governance and the fount of democracy in China.

Meanwhile, democracy is not just about domestic governance; it should also be reflected in international relations. A truly democratic government will support democracy in international relations. It will not foster hegemony and division abroad while building good or bad democracy and unity at home. Using ideology to bring down other countries, and promote a geo-strategy for absolute security will lead to division and confrontation, and are obviously anti-democratic.

All in all, there are no identical political systems in the world, neither is there a political model that fits all. Countries can borrow from the successful experience of others and develop forms of democracy suited to their own modernization process. The model that suits best is always the most appropriate. 

China did not follow the established path of other countries in its modernization drive. Similarly, China did not duplicate other countries’ models of democracy, but created its own. China’s new approach to democracy represents a significant contribution to international politics and human progress.

All paths to democracy, layering, grafting, or combination of layering and grafting, chosen by the peoples themselves deserve proper respect. The Chinese people are willing to work together with all other peoples around the world to carry forward democracy and other common values of humanity, add new elements to the world’s political structure, and advance towards a global community of shared future together.

*Cui Jianchun is Ambassador of China to Nigeria

Democracy:A Common Value of Humanity 

Continue Reading
8 Comments

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Politics

Enemies at the Gate: The Manipulation of VP Shettima’s Statement at Adoke’s Book Launch

Published

on

VP Kashim Shettima

Enemies at the Gate: The Manipulation of VP Shettima’s Statement at Adoke’s Book Launch

By: Dr. James Bwala

In a democratic society, it is essential for leaders to express their opinions openly, but often, their words can be misinterpreted or manipulated for various reasons. Recently, Vice President Kashim Shettima made a statement at the book launch of former Attorney General Mohammed Adoke. This statement has drawn criticism and misrepresentation from some political opponents, particularly those who do not support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. Understanding why enemies of democracy would want to twist Shettima’s words is crucial in analyzing the current political climate in Nigeria. 

I took time to watch the mood and listen over and over to the words from the VP’s shared experiences. It is vital to recognize the broader context of politics in Nigeria. The country has faced significant challenges, including corruption, insecurity, and economic difficulties. Political opponents often seek to gain leverage by creating narratives that undermine the credibility of the current administration. By twisting Shettima’s statement, these adversaries aim to create a divide among the populace. They may hope that by sowing doubt about the vice president’s loyalty to President Tinubu, they can weaken the government’s stability and weaken support for their policies. 

Again, it is understandable that political rivals may deliberately misinterpret Shettima’s words to portray the Tinubu administration in a negative light. For instance, if they suggest that the vice president expressed disdain for a particular policy or decision, this can incite public outrage and foster resistance against the government. They understand that sensationalized narratives can easily spread, especially on social media, where misinformation can go viral. This manipulation creates a dangerous environment for democracy, where facts are overshadowed by distorted versions of events. 

In addition to undermining the current administration, twisting statements like Shettima’s story at the book launch can also serve to distract from pressing issues affecting the nation by redirecting public attention towards their evil intentions. This strategy benefits only those who wish to maintain the status quo or divert criticism from their inability to address significant societal challenges, and we see that coming from the coalators and their supporters. The manipulation of Vice President Shettima’s statement at Adoke’s book launch reflects a broader pattern of political maneuvering in Nigeria. Enemies of democracy often distort words to weaken the administration and distract the public from important issues. Understanding the motivations behind such actions is essential for citizens who wish to engage meaningfully in the democratic process. A well-informed public can differentiate between genuine concerns and politically motivated attacks, thereby strengthening democracy rather than undermining it. 

READ ALSO:https://newsng.ng/the-plight-of-farida/

It is undeniable that the political landscape in Nigeria has been marked by a whirlwind of speculations and controversies. Despite the efforts of those who seek to undermine the current administration, both President Tinubu and his Vice President Kashim Shettima have shown a remarkable commitment to good governance. Their ability to navigate through political challenges is critical in ensuring that the focus remains on improving the lives of Nigerian citizens rather than getting lost in the distractions created by opponents. 

The political climate is often filled with rumors and accusations that can easily divert attention from important governance issues. Some critics, often labeled as enemies of peace, thrive on chaos and uncertainty, hoping to fuel division and unrest. However, Tinubu and Shettima have demonstrated that they understand the nature of these challenges. They recognize that speculation can sometimes be a tool used to erode confidence in leadership. Instead of allowing these distractions to sway their decisions, they remain committed to their goals and the well-being of the nation. 

An example of their commitment to governance can be seen in their handling of economic issues. The economy of Nigeria has faced significant challenges, including inflation and unemployment. By focusing on policies that stimulate growth and create job opportunities, Tinubu and Shettima aim to instill a sense of optimism among the populace. Their administration has introduced initiatives aimed at improving infrastructure, supporting local businesses, and attracting foreign investments. Through these actions, they seek to create a stable environment that benefits all Nigerians. 

The administration’s approach to security illustrates their commitment to addressing critical issues facing the country. With the rise in insecurity, such as banditry and insurgency, they have prioritized national security and sought to implement sustainable strategies that ensure the safety of citizens. They understand that a secure environment is fundamental for any form of governance and development. While there may be adversities and threats from those who wish to see the presidency falter, President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima remain focused on their mission. They recognize the political games at play and continue to prioritize good governance above all else. Their commitment to economic growth, security, and the betterment of Nigeria showcases a leadership that is determined to rise above distractions and deliver results for the people. By concentrating on these priorities, they aim to create a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria, defying those who oppose progress. 

The role of a leader is often scrutinized by the public, especially when they share their past experiences. Kashim Shettima did so at the book launch. However, discussions emerging about the Vice President’s reflections on his time as the governor of Borno State under President Goodluck Jonathan are being twisted, manipulated, misused, and misinformed. Some are quick to interpret these reflections as signs of disloyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. However, such interpretations often stem from misunderstanding or mischief rather than genuine criticism of the vice president’s intentions. 

The efforts of those who seek to derail the Tinubu and Shettima administration are rooted in a desire for political power and influence. Critics often argue that their policies are ineffective or detrimental to the country. However, it is essential to assess the administration’s achievements and initiatives that aim to improve the lives of Nigerians. The persistent attempts to undermine the administration often backfire. Instead of weakening the resolve of Tinubu and Shettima, these efforts seem to galvanize their support base. The leaders have continued to engage with the public, emphasizing transparency and accountability, which are vital for restoring trust in government. While critics may proclaim failure, the growing support from various sectors of society indicates that many believe in the vision presented by this administration. 

One could also consider that political dynamics are not fixed. Those days and now are not the same. The relationship between leaders can evolve based on the circumstances at hand. Historical examples from other countries demonstrate that past leaders have often supported each other while still advocating for their individual perspectives. For instance, leaders in various democratic nations have collaborated on initiatives even when they held different positions in government. The vice president’s memories and insights from his past governance do not imply disloyalty to President Tinubu. Instead, they reflect a commitment to learning from history and improving current governance practices. It is essential for the public to separate genuine discourse from mischief-driven narratives. 

* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.

Enemies at the Gate: The Manipulation of VP Shettima’s Statement at Adoke’s Book Launch

Continue Reading

Politics

Brazilian VP Visit: The leadership and humility in VP Kashim Shettima reaffirms the rich cultural heritage in Africa.

Published

on

VP Kashim Shettima during the Brazilian VP visit

Brazilian VP Visit: The leadership and humility in VP Kashim Shettima reaffirms the rich cultural heritage in Africa.

By: Dr. James Bwala

Vice President Kashim Shettima’s act of opening the car door for Brazilian Vice President Geraldo Alckmin symbolizes a profound demonstration of humility not only in political leadership but also drawing from the cultural and religious agreement to give respect to one another and especially the elderly. Such gestures, though seemingly minor, convey respect and equality among dignitaries, breaking conventional barriers often associated with hierarchical power structures. This behavior challenges traditional perceptions of authority by emphasizing service over status. 

The incident sparked mixed reactions online; while some critics argued that it was inappropriate for a high-ranking official to perform such a task, many praised Shettima’s conduct as an example of empathetic leadership. Humility in leadership fosters collaboration and mutual respect, qualities essential for effective diplomacy and governance. By prioritizing respectful interpersonal interactions, Shettima exemplifies how small acts can enhance diplomatic rapport and humanize political figures.

Kashim Shettima’s gesture goes beyond mere etiquette; it reflects an intentional embodiment of humility that contributes positively to international relations. His action serves as a reminder that leadership grounded in humility can bridge cultural divides and promote unity among global leaders.

I think those backlashing the vice president over his demonstrative humility fail to take a closer look at Kashim Shettima’s cultural and traditional upbringing. In many Nigerian communities, especially in the Northeast where Shettima hails from, cultural norms emphasize respect and humility as essential virtues. The phrase “Bakon Ka Annabin Ka,” which translates to “Your visitor is also your prophet,” encapsulates this ethos, underscoring the importance of honoring guests and valuing their presence regardless of status. This proverb reflects a deep-seated tradition of hospitality intertwined with reverence, which likely informs Shettima’s comportment.

From an academic perspective, understanding political figures through the lens of their sociocultural backgrounds provides richer insights into their behavior and leadership style. Demonstrative humility, often misunderstood in contemporary politics as weakness or insincerity, can instead be interpreted as an authentic expression rooted in cultural values. Thus, criticisms against Shettima overlook how his demeanor aligns with longstanding societal expectations that prioritize respectfulness and deference within communal interactions. 

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/the-plight-of-farida/

By appreciating this cultural context, one can better comprehend how Shettima’s actions resonate with the constituents who share these traditional values. This appreciation fosters a more nuanced dialogue about leadership qualities that transcend mere political performance, highlighting the intricate interplay between personal heritage and public service. In this light, the backlash against his humility appears less as a critique of personal character and more as a misunderstanding of the cultural narrative that shapes his public persona. Such misinterpretations not only risk alienating leaders from their communities but also diminish the richness of cultural diversity in political discourse. 

The cultural dimensions that inform leaders like Shettima to act as such are very rare. We can cultivate a more inclusive political environment that celebrates diversity and encourages genuine understanding across different societal norms. Recognizing the depth of cultural influences allows for a more empathetic and informed evaluation of leadership, where actions are seen not just in isolation but as part of a larger tapestry of inherited wisdom and community values. This perspective invites a shift from superficial judgments towards a deeper appreciation of how cultural heritage informs and enriches the leadership landscape. It is through this lens of cultural appreciation that we can begin to see humility not as a weakness, but as a profound strength that fosters unity and respect within diverse communities.

For emphasis sake, the act of Vice President Kashim Shettima exemplifies the deep-rooted humility embedded within African heritage and culture, particularly in the context of respecting elders. The Brazilian vice president, being an elderly man, received from Shettima a gesture that goes beyond mere protocol; it reflects a cultural ethos where reverence for age and status is paramount. Such humility is not only a personal virtue but also a communal value, central to African traditions where respect forms the foundation of social interactions. This behavior aligns with Shettima’s well-documented philosophy of humble service and consideration for others, which has been highlighted as characteristic of his leadership style. 

Those who dismiss these actions as insignificant or contrary to African values either misunderstand or lack the humaneness intrinsic to this culture. In essence, Shettima’s conduct reaffirms the rich cultural heritage that prioritizes dignity and respect in interpersonal relations.

* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.

Brazilian VP Visit: The leadership and humility in VP Kashim Shettima reaffirms the rich cultural heritage in Africa.

Continue Reading

Politics

The Arise TV Interview: Datti Ahmed’s Poor Political Conduct and the Lasting Influence of VP Shettima in Nigeria’s Contemporary Political Landscape

Published

on

VP Shettima and Datti Ahmed

The Arise TV Interview: Datti Ahmed’s Poor Political Conduct and the Lasting Influence of VP Shettima in Nigeria’s Contemporary Political Landscape

By: Dr. James Bwala

The recent Arise TV interview featuring Yusuf Datti Baba Ahmed offers a revealing insight into the emotional and psychological underpinnings of his persistent criticisms against Vice President Kashim Shettima. Ahmed’s palpable frustration, stemming from a profound sense of political defeat, underscores much of his rhetoric. This emotional response can be interpreted as more than mere personal grievance; it reflects the broader dynamics of political rivalry and the ways in which loss can provoke vehement opposition. The interview serves as a case study in how individuals navigate political setbacks by redirecting their energies toward vocal dissent.

Yusuf Datti Baba Ahmed’s political trajectory following his defeat in the 2023 vice-presidential election vividly illustrates the tension between personal ambition and collective opposition within Nigerian politics. As a prominent figure of the Labour Party, Baba Ahmed’s response to his loss was marked by evident frustration rooted in his perception of systemic challenges facing Nigeria’s opposition coalition. Indeed, Yusuf Datti Baba Ahmed embodies an “angry politician” who cannot conceal the pains of electoral defeat because it symbolizes not just personal loss but also a failure to galvanize effective opposition. His critiques offer insightful reflections on Nigeria’s complex political landscape, where ambitions clash with collective action imperatives. Thus, Baba Ahmed’s post-defeat rhetoric serves as both a lamentation and a rallying cry for transformative political engagement. Therefore, I will be kind to him. 

Ahmed’s attacks on Shettima are emblematic of the complex interplay between personal ambition and public discourse within Nigerian politics. His frustration reveals an attempt to reclaim relevance and influence by challenging established figures, thereby highlighting the often contentious nature of political engagement. This scenario illustrates how defeat not only shapes individual behavior but also impacts wider political narratives, contributing to an environment where criticism is frequently fueled by underlying emotions rather than solely policy disagreements.

READ ALSO:https://newsng.ng/police-charge-rooms-a-minting-press/

Ahmed’s approach can be seen as a strategic maneuver to galvanize support among those who feel similarly disenfranchised, thereby forging a collective identity rooted in shared discontent. By doing so, he taps into a reservoir of communal frustration, transforming personal loss into a rallying cry for broader political resistance. 

The interview on Arise TV not only exposes Ahmed’s inability to manage political defeat gracefully but also underscores the lingering psychological impact Shettima has on him. Baba Ahmed’s remarks reveal a politician struggling with the aftermath of the 2023 presidential elections, unable to reconcile with his loss. This behavior highlights a weakness in political maturity and resilience, qualities essential for effective leadership. Instead of focusing on constructive political engagement post-defeat, Baba Ahmed’s public outburst suggests an ongoing fixation that detracts from his credibility.

The tactics Baba Ahmed is trying to apply on the road to 2027 not only amplify his voice but also position him as a prominent figure within an opposition movement, eager to challenge the status quo. Through these actions, Ahmed effectively channels his personal grievances into a broader political strategy, seeking to redefine the narrative around leadership and accountability in contemporary Nigerian politics. His rhetoric, therefore, serves as both a personal catharsis and a calculated attempt to reshape the political landscape by questioning the legitimacy and effectiveness of those in power. In doing so, Ahmed not only underscores the emotional dimensions of political rivalry but also invites a critical examination of the mechanisms through which power is contested and maintained. 

This dynamic underscores the complexity of political discourse, where personal vendettas often intertwine with genuine calls for reform, blurring the lines between personal animosity and legitimate critique. As such, the intensity of Ahmed’s rhetoric can be seen as a reflection of the broader societal tensions that permeate the political arena. In this context, Ahmed’s vehement critiques of Vice President Kashim Shettima can be perceived as both an expression of his own political ambitions and a mirror to the frustrations felt since the 2023 defeat. The fervor with which Ahmed addresses these issues suggests a deep-seated desire to channel public disillusionment into actionable political change, amplifying the voices of those who feel marginalized by the current administration.

However, what Yusuf Baba Ahmed did not know is that his taking his legs to go and grant further illustrates that Vice President Shettima’s personality continues to “haunt” and affect Baba Ahmed deeply, suggesting a complex dynamic extending beyond mere electoral rivalry. Such personal animosities can undermine democratic discourse by shifting attention from policy issues to personal grievances. In sum, this episode reflects poorly on Datti Baba Ahmed’s political conduct while inadvertently affirming the lasting influence of VP Shettima in Nigeria’s contemporary political landscape.

* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.

The Arise TV Interview: Datti Ahmed’s Poor Political Conduct and the Lasting Influence of VP Shettima in Nigeria’s Contemporary Political Landscape

Continue Reading

Trending

Verified by MonsterInsights