Thursday, July 18, 2013

But who has arrived at a venerable age and who is untarnished by the previous government’s misdoings? What credible candidate –apart from Mariko- ran in opposition to ATT in the last elections? Who is well-known to the Malian nation? Who presents not only a King figure but a father figure for a bruised nation? Who carries the torch and the hallowed name of Soundyatta and Modibo?
The ground swell is for Ibrahim Boubakar Keita- it is his moment.

7 Comments:

Blogger Andrew said...

Fascinating run down of all the candidates. Thanks for that. xx

9:35 AM  
Blogger toubab said...

Thank you Andrew! Alas it is not all the candidates. If you are interested, there is a really informative blog with a 'proper' inpartial run-down of all 28 candidates: http://bridgesfrombamako.com/2013/07/15/2013-presidential-candidates/ Much recommended.xSophie

9:44 AM  
Blogger David said...

I can't work it all out, but the posters make splendid photographs! May it all be peaceful. Brilliant new production of a Cesaire play here about Patrice Lumumba showed what happens to the fragile birth of democracy when there has been a more wrecking colonial influence at work (poor Congo, will it ever ascend the ladder?)

4:33 PM  
Blogger toubab said...

It is indeed quite confusing with so many candidates-people will go with gut feelings. Have yet to see any televised debates between candidates, but maybe it will come in the last few days? Would love to see the play you mention once I am back! Not long now...much love xxS

5:28 PM  
Blogger Susan Scheid said...

These posts express brilliantly what is at stake, and how difficult it is for the "right" candidate to come to the fore. The capsule description of Haidara Aichata Cisse is particularly striking. What you describe reminds me of Elizabeth Warren (who won her Senatorial race in Massachusetts), the way they each speak truth to power.

12:40 AM  
Blogger Unknown said...

I would vote for Haidara Aichata on style grounds alone. Mali needs someone with a big robe and headdress in charge. Style is REAL power!

9:05 AM  
Blogger toubab said...

Yeah! Hail Chatto! (that is the nickname for Haidara Achata Cisse) She really is something. She is always dressed in Saurai regalia with gold and amber in her hair. But that is not all, she is funny; wonderfully outspoken and totally fearless.I'd love her to win, but failing that IBK will do fine!

7:43 PM  

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