It’s no secret that history does not leave a political vacuum for too long. Nor does Nature tolerate any empty space for a long period. It’s the same in our world of politics in this part of the planet.

IN TODAY’S context, the (...) absence of the iconic MMM leader is an interesting – although heartrending – case in point.

To better drive home history’s powerful argument or showcase, let’s rewind the hands of the clock to some seven decades ago. We are right in the throes of the 1940s Second World War. The Allies led by the US, Soviet Union, UK, France and Poland were pitted against the Axis headed by Germany, Japan and Italy. In the circumstances, the first four Allied countries had as statesmen Franklin Roosevelt, Joseph Stalin, Winston Churchill and de Gaulle.

After a protracted sixyear brutal war – which cost the lives of some 55 million people –, the Allies defeated Nazi Germany and Hitler’s other accomplices. Thereafter, an intense international feeling swept across the world: that the victors were all irreplaceable.

Dictator Stalin, too, received the same honours and adulation.

But history proves that the after- war wave of nostalgia was but short- lived.

Both Churchill and de Gaulle were later defeated or forced to resign. More forceful and efficient leaders in the US, UK and France emerged and took the world centre stage. Today, Mrs. Angela Merkel has proved to be the best leader Germany has ever produced. Lesson? History does not create a political void for a long period of time. Given the opportunity, other good leaders do come over on the world stage. True, no two leaders have the same carboncopy character, ability or approach. Good leaders are like the big rivers which all end up in the vast seas! Take some classic examples. After the death of Jawaharlal Nehru – Prime Minister of India from 1947 to 1964 – many Indians thought that the country would be doomed and damned. They were all proved wrong. More powerful leaders surfaced.

Indira Gandhi is but one of them. China produced mightier leaders than Mao Tse- tung after his reign of 27 years from 1949 to 1976. Deng Xiaoping, Hua Guofeng, Zhao Ziyang and other universally acclaimed competent leaders have all positioned China on the world economic, scientific, sporting and military map.

And finally, think of the successors of the great freedom fighters of Africa – Jomo Kenyatta, Julius Nyerere and Kenneth Kaunda, to name but a few. Some outperformed the founding fathers. In our own country, some of the successors of sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam have done even better to salvage the ruined economy.

All told, there is nothing called irreplaceable in the history of politics. Sooner or later, the void or the empty space is filled. And at times, it’s a welcome one.

Though painful! With that historical and global back, we now come to the absence and short- term replacement of the MMM living legend Paul Bérenger. It’s public knowledge that he: 1. is today all the five senses of the 44 year- old party.

He is its brain, heart and soul. Oxygen, lifeblood and lifeline, too. History will add life jacket, lifesaver and life support system also! Nothing budges or moves without his approval or nods or winks or other body language.

In brief, when he coughs and sneezes, all the other members, from top to bottom, catch the cold well before their historical leader.

2. personally has created, strengthened and forged the MMM – with his own hands as well as sweat, blood and tears, brick by brick and step by step. He risked his life so many times. He was brutally assaulted.
He was jailed for a long time. But he persevered.

So many betrayed him.

Others have stabbed him in the back several times.

( Only Paul can befriend and accommodate the born traitors. His immense capacity to forget and forgive is a real mystery!) No wonder his followers swear but by him and his name.

And breathe and live! His towering personality is like a huge banyan tree which dwarfs everybody and everything. A simple clearing of the throat sends many panting for breath or dumbstruck.

3. is a strict disciplinarian and is the most knowledgeable of the political class. People respect him for his skill. It’s yet another valid reason why his supporters cling to his commanding personality.

4. is not devoid of some bad qualities. He often overdoes. Takes rash decisions.

His outburst of anger has antagonized many. His serious nature is often belittled by a mean streak. And his ridiculing spree has cost his party dearly so many times. ONE THING IS SURE, the thorns are meaningless in comparison with the rosy side of his personality. By the way, who doesn’t have weaknesses? So, here comes Alan Ganoo’s personality.

He is not a newcomer on the political stage.

He’s a lawyer with a legal mind with 30 years in the public or political arena. He’s known to be cool, calm- headed, considerate and patient. With a sympathetic ear! He’s deeply religious. He’s a family man now. He is inheriting a well- structured party.

It’s at its near peak – especially after the last Municipal council elections. He’ll benefit from the Government’s total disarray.

Therefore, all the ingredients are assembled for a good leadership. Of course, his mild, soft and gentle character will sharply contrast with the firy and aggressive one of Paul.

Make no mistake: Softspoken Manmohan Singh did better – in his first term – than the most powerful orator of India, Atal Bihari Vajpayee! All said, the country needs a good and performing Leader of the Opposition. Especially now!

Sometimes a break or an absence works wonders.

For sure, Alan will be in constant touch with Paul in Paris. Who knows that he will advise and encourage Alan to press ahead for drastic and dramatic changes within the party? For example, get rid of the born traitors and bornagain turncoats and other notorious corrupt elements! You mark my words, don’t underestimate Alan.
All said and done, take my analysis with a pinch of salt. It’s definitely not from the MMM. I may be wrong!