Ibn Khaldun, the 14th-century African philosopher offers profound insights into leadership and statesmanship in his monumental work, the Muqaddimah.
He stated that “Leadership exists only through superiority, and superiority comes only through group feeling.”
Indeed, in every era, nations are led by politicians – but only a few ascend to the revered status of statesman.
The distinction lies not in office held, nor in titles claimed, but in the lasting imprint of character, principle, and vision that echoes long after power has passed from their hands.
A minister may hold a portfolio, wield authority, sign policies – but if their removal leaves no vacuum, no reflection, no legacy, then their role was administrative, not transformative.
Their political presence, though official, was hollow. History forgets them quickly, as the nation’s course…
