Assassinations, such as the imprisonment of political opponents, serve no purpose. If anything, they fuel the message of the victim. We must educate people that differences in what we believe do not grant a license to end a life. Dissent is necessary. Terminating a life or attempting to do so, because of dissent, is unnecessary.
The attempted assassination of former U.S. President Trump was senseless and served no purpose. Escorted off the stage by a swarm of Secret Service agents with his fist raised in defiance, Trump seemed to convey to his audience and supporters that the heart of his campaign message persisted.
Throughout history, political leaders have been assassinated, killed, or narrowly escaped attempts. This phenomenon extends beyond Western leaders and activists; Africa has also witnessed several assassinations. In each case, the message did not die with the victim; if anything, it grew louder.
- Patrice Lumumba, assassinated in 1961, became a martyr for the pan-African movement. His commitment to justice, equality, and self-determination continues to inspire generations.
- Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, Nigeria’s first Prime Minister, left a legacy through his speeches advocating unity, independence, and progress.
- Muhammad Anwar al-Sadat, Egypt’s third President, emphasized peace and reconciliation. His vision for a cooperative Middle East remains influential, even after his 1981 assassination.
Dissent, when nonviolent, is valuable. First, it promotes critical thinking by encouraging the questioning of prevailing norms. Second, it also protects minority opinions. In legal and political contexts, dissenting opinions ensure that all viewpoints are heard and considered.
Third, dissent encourages accountability by holding those in power accountable. When the prevailing decisions and thoughts are challenged, transparency and integrity in governance are promoted. Lastly, dissent fosters innovation. By challenging the status quo, dissent can lead to new ideas and innovations. It promotes a climate in which creative solutions can be articulated.
Dr. Ivan Edwards, FAAPMR, FRSA
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