Trump criticism

President must show leadership

ONCE AGAIN President Donald Trump finds himself at the centre of a political storm. Having belatedly denounced white supremacist groups following the violent clashes in Charlottesville, Virginia, the US President poured fuel on the fire by repeating his initial response that there was “blame on both sides”.

There can be no equivocation when it comes to condemning racism and extremism in all its forms, yet President Trump, who has been quick to jump to conclusions where Islamic extremism is potentially involved, has shown just that in his reaction to events in Charlottesville. His comments have been condemned by numerous Republican and Democrat politicians, while Prime Minister Theresa May joined the growing chorus of criticism saying that “far right views” should be condemned by those in positions of power.

This is the latest in a series of controversies to have stalked his presidency. His term in office has been characterised by tirades against the media, a failure to push through healthcare reform, allegations over Russian links and an alarming war of words with North Korea.

President Trump has said he wants to use Twitter to speak to the American people. Perhaps he should pay closer attention to his predecessor Barack Obama whose recent anti-racism tweet has become the most ‘liked’ in history.

What the world needs from the president of the most powerful nation on earth is not bravado and aggressive posturing, but leadership. It is time for President Trump to act in accordance with the exalted office he has the privilege of holding.