Here’s a remarkable and ludicrous story.
Joaquim Chissano, the former president of Mozambique, one of the most corrupt countries in the world, has been given a multi-million dollar price for African leadership.
He was selected by a panel headed by Kofi Anan, formerly of the UN. Also on the jury was Mary Robinson, the leftwing former president of Ireland.
The award is called the Mo Ibrahim Prize and is funded by a rich Sudanese named Mohammed Ibrahim. Its point is to promote “good governance” in Africa, a continent which could certainly use some.The award pays $5 million spread over 10 years and then $200,000 per year for life.
Mr. Chissano is 68 so the actuarial likelihood of his cashing in for many decades is small.
One of the 13 African rulers considered for the prize was former president Gnassingbe Eyadema of Togo (known as “Nasty Eyadema” by his many enemies) who personally murdered his predecessors and plenty of other people over his 38 years of rule.
Mr Chissano, the prize winner, is a buddy of Crazy Bob Mugabe of Zimbabwe, and was best man at his wedding.
He said he was happy to get the money.
What African leader isn’t?
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