Exile

When reading this article the thought immediately came to mind…What about Nelson Mandela, the Dalai Lama, and the ex-Prime Minister from Pakistan, Nawaz Sharif being in exile for nine years, and trying to return but being immediately put on a plane to leave the country.

Nelson Mandela has a great story, going from exile and jail to becoming president of a country. Mandela spent 27 years in prison due to his strong opposition to apartheid in his home country of South Africa. The man was an inspiration to his people and to the people of South Africa. He became the first president elected in a full representation election of South Africa. His platform was not one of anger or malice toward the white people of South Africa but one of negotiation and unity.

The Dalai Lama, who is still in exile from China and currently resides in India. The Peoples Republic of China refuses to recognize the current Dalai Lama, because they feel that it is their right to name the Dalai Lama’s. Although China continues to keep a secular stance, they feel that they have the right to do this.

And finally Nawaz Sharif. The history is not as clear for this political leader in exile. I believe this is due to that fact that the events are so current. Sharif was elected prime minister of Pakistan twice, in non-consecutive terms. While serving his last term, 1999, there was a coup with General Pervez Musharraf leading the way. General Musharraf is the current prime minister, and still holds his title as General of the Pakistani army. Sharif tried to re-enter the country to run for prime minister in the upcoming elections, but was quickly escorted out of the country.

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