As Donald Trump begins his second term as the 47th President of the United States, former lawmaker and human rights advocate, Shehu Sani, has urged African countries not to expect much from his administration.
In a tweet on Monday, January 20, 2024, Sani stated that Trump’s leadership would present significant challenges for the world.
He pointed out that the U.S. under Trump would likely reassess its relationships globally, including with key international institutions like the European Union (EU), United Nations (UN), and NATO, which could cause discomfort among allies and adversaries alike.
Sani noted that Trump’s approach would be one of confrontation, with a presidency that would be more feared than loved, and warned of potential resistance from both friends and foes.
He said, “Mr. Trump takes over the American presidency today. A disruptor takes power. It’s going to be a great challenge to the world. It’s going to be an American nationalist and businessman versus the world.”
Sani continued, “He will pull the plug or change the plugs at the UN, EU, NATO, and alter American relations with the world. He will be feared and not loved and will face resistance from both allies and foes. He will try to reset everything, and that is where the discomfort will come.”
“Africa should not expect much from Trump, even though Biden didn’t do much either. Trump is back, sadly without Mugabe. Trump may be the wake-up call the world needs or the one to keep us awake. However, the world must not abandon or compromise its universal human values.”
Since his re-election two months ago, Trump has been vocal about the changes he plans to implement.
With his ‘America First’ approach on trade and immigration, he may revive and expand the restrictive policies from his first term, including potential travel bans affecting several African nations.
