In developing countries, there is a serious shortage of statesmen capable of uniting their people and leading them toward peace, prosperity, and stability.
In countries that have gained independence from the grip of colonialism, it is natural for there to be opposing forces and deep divisions. The residue of unfinished revolutions lingers in these nations.
At times when political transitions occur through popular movements—moments that call for unity and national progress—division, violence, and revenge often take center stage instead.
Thus, there is an undeniable need for visionary leaders in such countries. If a nation cannot be united, it becomes a source of great peril.
South Africa serves as a compelling example in this context.
Nelson Mandela, the undisputed anti-apartheid leader of South Africa, was a true statesman and a wise politician. He spent an uninterrupted 27 years in prison due to his anti-apartheid activism.
Yet, upon his release, when he became the country’s president through a democratic election, he appointed F.W. de Klerk—under whose regime he had been imprisoned—as deputy president. Remarkably, de Klerk had served as the president of South Africa from 1989 to 1994.
In a show of national interest and compromise, Mandela extended generosity toward his former adversary, and de Klerk, in turn, willingly stepped down from the presidency to serve as vice president.
Both were willing to move past old conflicts and work together, regardless of race or background, to rebuild the nation. This spirit of reconciliation—championed by Mandela—remains a globally admired and widely discussed historical achievement.
Similarly, following the Second World War, France and Germany also advanced reconciliation efforts. They set aside the pain and horror of war to unite their nations, which allowed them to move toward development and prosperity.
In contrast, developing nations often fail to prioritize national unity, allowing both domestic and foreign conspirators to repeatedly exploit divisions. As a result, their political, economic, and socio-cultural progress continues to be undermined for decades.
However, after any war, conflict, or major upheaval, the highest priority should be the establishment of peace. Once a goal is achieved, the first duty of the victorious force is to restore law and order and consolidate national unity.
This does not mean that those who committed serious crimes—such as murder, abduction, rape, looting, crimes against humanity, or money laundering—should be granted blanket amnesty. They must be held accountable through fair trials and justice must be ensured. However, if national unity cannot be established after a victory, then conflict and violence are likely to persist.
Just as Nelson Mandela resolved the global issue of apartheid, developing countries—no matter how many problems they face—must strive for national unity. If necessary, Truth and Reconciliation Commissions should be established.
These countries need leaders who are committed to the welfare of the broader population and long-term national interests, leaders who can rise above narrow partisan politics and dedicate themselves to building the future of their nations.
By confronting the complex global geopolitical challenges of today, such leaders can leave behind a stable and developed nation for future generations.
Undoubtedly, keeping a nation united is a difficult task—but it is not impossible. The unfortunate reality, however, is that such leadership and vision are rarely found or developed among the leaders of the Third World.
That is why, even after half a century of independence, many nations are still heard lamenting, “This freedom is false.” Therefore, to build national unity in these countries, there is no alternative to open-mindedness and generosity of spirit from all parties involved.
