Former US President, Jimmy Carter Praises Jonathan
Says he’s a symbol of democracy in Africa
Former United States President, Mr. Jimmy Carter, has poured encomiums on former President, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, describing him as a symbol of democracy on the African continent.
Carter, the 39th US President, stated this while receiving Jonathan yesterday at the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum located at the Carter Center in Atlanta.
The two former presidents held a fruitful meeting at the Carter Center where they held a wide-ranging discussion on global issues and shared views on how to promote peace, democracy and good governance in Africa and the world.
Speaking on Jonathan’s time in office, Carter said: “Jonathan is the symbol of democracy in action. You set an example that others African leaders should follow.”
The former American president further praised Jonathan for organising a transparent election and easily conceding defeat and handing over to the opposition, stressing that by doing so Jonathan showed his deep democratic commitment.
While responding, Jonathan stated that his actions while in office were informed by his belief in a peaceful, transparent and people-oriented governance, adding that Africa can only move forward through democracy and good governance.
Jonathan also commended Carter for the exemplary manner he had in his post-presidential life, adding that he was inspired by Carter’s commitment to causes that advance the path of humanity.
Jonathan and Carter share a common experience as one term presidents and have both retired involuntarily from politics while rededicating their lives towards making the world a better place.
They both agreed that peaceful and stable government increase foreign direct investment and sustainable development.
The Carter Center is a nongovernmental, not-for-profit organisation founded in 1982 by Carter and his wife,
Rosalynn and guided by a fundamental commitment to human rights and the alleviation of human suffering. It seeks to prevent and resolve conflicts, enhance freedom and democracy, and improve health.
Jonathan has been visiting many strategic pro-democracy institutions where he had been invited to share his experience in office as a promoter of democracy and advocate of good governance in Africa.
He has so far been hosted by the Presidential Precinct in Virginia, John Kennedy School of Government, King Center, as well as the Carter Center.