Role of Religion in American Presidential election

K.M.Sajad Ibrahim

Religion has a predominant role in American elections. All American presidential candidates want to be identified as a member of either Catholics or moderate or conservative protestants. In the 2008 election the religion will be another important focus of attention. In this respect Obama faces more threats than McCain. It was found that the father of Obama belongs to Muslim and mother Christian. However, Obama has been very vigilant of not identifying with Muslims since it would spoil his image and prospects. This is the reason why Obama was not ready to meet any Muslim organisations when he already had meetings with other religious communities. But the prominent Islamic leaders in US already extended their support to Obama.

Choice of Prathibha Patil as Women President : A Suicidal Decision

Choice of Prathibha Patil as Women President : A Suicidal Decision

India has been looking for a women President for the last 57 years. When the UPA decided to nominate Prathibha Patil as the candidature for the President, it was a suicidal decision for two reasons. What is the qualification of Ms.Patil to be the President of India since she never appeared in the higher strata of either political or public life. In fact, we can ignore this fact taking into account of India’s previous Presidents’ background. However, how can we respect our first citizen whose family has the track record of criminal background? It does not mean that Bhairon Singh Shikhawat of BJP is aptly qualified to be the President. That is a different case of a person who is very much infamous of promoting the current phase of communalism. Mr.Shekhawat was responsible for inventing different strategies of Hindutva while holding many political posts prior to the present Vice President. The general public understands that there is an acute shortage of candidature for the Congress party. Besides this, Sonia Gandhi wants a puppet in the post of President. Abul Kalam, the outgoing President has proved his position as most dignified and not just singing machine. If Ms.Patil is elected as the new President of India, then she will be the worst President of India. It is very unfortunate that the Left Front has strongly backed the UPA candidature, for which they have to pay a heavy price in future.