International Election Reaction, Athens Style

Carlyn Lynch
cl329305@ohio.edu


A WORLD INSPIRED
One of the only things on Ismail Elmahdi’s office walls is a picture of Nelson Mandela, an African political hero and worldwide symbol of peace. Mandela was imprisoned for 27 years and when released, instead of going after his persecutors, he forgave and reunited his country.

Elmahdi told us that president-elect, Barack Obama, must reunite a divided nation as well and compared the significance of his election to the election of Nelson Mandela, who has joined many other world leaders in congratulating the president-elect. Elmahdi is from Sudan and says that his family there couldn’t be happier about the news.

Somali student Abdul Warsame says the people in his country were glued to CNN waiting for the election results. The whole world was watching.


Abdul Warsame talks about his family's reaction to the election results

LEADING BY EXAMPLE
During his acceptance speech Tuesday night, Obama acknowledged that he did not have the entire country’s support but that he hears the concerns of his doubters and will work with everyone to restore America.

John McCain delivered a gracious concession speech, offering his support to his rival. Elmahdi believes that these actions have inspired new faith in democracy, saying “by this election, people can witness the real America”. The world has seen a peaceful revolution where a divided United States can once again, after the dust settles, become one America.


Breaking news of Obama election prompts Australians to erupt in applause

WHAT IS IT ABOUT THIS MAN?
Ghirmai Negash is an African-Dutch citizen who believes that Obama's multicultural background makes him relatable. People view him as an intellectual as opposed to a politician and they believe that he has the brains and the character to lead the world in the wake of economic crisis.



NOT EVERYONE IS ON BOARD WITH OBAMA
Ana Gicova, a student from Macedonia, says that her country would probably have a better relationship with the U.S. if more Republican policies were in place. She thinks that Macedonia would have a better chance of being accepted to NATO under an administration similar to Bush. Although personally, she agrees more with the ideals of Obama's campaign.