Can’t be neutral about charismatic leaders
There are few celebrated public figures on Earth. These peoples are so charismatic and attractive that one cannot remain neutral. Either people agree or disagree. Fidel Castro is one of them. For me he was the one who restored his people’s dignity, freedom and sovereignty. Apart from his contribution to Cubans, he also raised his voice for nations who were colonised and oppressed. He was the only symbol against imperialist powers and mafias that limit and control people’s freedom and resources. During the 2005 earthquake in Pakistan, 300 Cuban doctors and paramedics worked day and night in relief activities without any interest. God bless him.
From Mr Suhail Abdul Wadood
Dubai
The people’s love
Castro was trustworthy for the people Cuba. Only outsiders and greedy people saw the wrong in him.
From Mr Bheki Buthelezi
UAE
Leaders shouldn’t be feared
Why do people have such rose-coloured glasses when it comes to Castro? He was a brutal dictator who caused many citizens to flee, and he killed and imprisoned many. You can’t just ignore that.
From Mr Eshtiaq Sulaiman
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Caring for the people
Fidel Castro was a humanist. He was characterised by a strong concern for human welfare, especially the poor. He emphasised dignity and worth of individual people. Castro stressed the need for people to achieve improvements in society and self-fulfilment through reason and to develop human-orientated ethical values. Castro believed in a better life for all and in a better world. He fought the good fight, has finished the race and has kept his faith in a better world.
From Mr Osama Masood
UAE
Being merciful
If you appreciate Castro, then North Korea’s Kim Jong Un would also be a fine example of leadership. According to you, the whole world should follow their examples. He was a murderer.
From Mr Kevin Henson
Angouleme, France
Lead by example
A good leader must understand first the needs of the nation. Secondly, he must devote himself in serving those needs. Third, he, himself must be a good follower, too.
From Ms Lizzie Gamboa
UAE
It takes a planner
Simply loving the nation and sacrificing doesn’t work. Strategies, planning, development and the betterment of the nation shows real leadership. It is not possible in vote bank politics.
From Mr Dhayalan Ramaiyan
Sharjah
Leading, not commanding
A good leader is one who can hold the nation together despite the odds and bring beneficial results for the nation’s survival. One who leads – not commands.
From Ms Arlyne Olavere-Ocampo
UAE
Use power to empower
Castro was a revolutionary whose supporters described him as the champion of anti-imperialism, humanity, socialism and the environment, whereas his detractors defined him as a dictator who oversaw numerous human rights violations inflicted on Cuban people. For better or for worse, his life shaped the history of Cuba for more than four decades. A leader of the country has to possess certain sterling qualities. Even though citizens are vital for the progress of the country, it is the leader who helms the responsibility to take the country to the zenith of progress. The qualities of honesty, integrity, selflessness, wisdom, pragmatism, prudence, courage and genuine concern and binding people together will make a leader effective. A leader should utilise his power to empower his countrymen.
From Ms Jayashree Kulkarni
UAE
Walks the walk
A good leader has a selfless love and compassion for his or her people and for all the next generations. He is not arrogant, rather he’s gentle and uplifting the people who are suffering from misery and pain. A great leader is a role model of hard work. He walks his talk and inspires his people through his actions. He makes sure that his promises are done and not broken.
From Mr Bertrand Richemond
UAE
His people hated him
I can’t believe what I just read, Mr Bertrand Richemond. His people hated him! He was a brutal dictator who killed many innocent people.
From Mr Mike Byrd
Dubai
A hero
But why did the US think whoever opposed their ideas on is a dictator? The man was a hero to Cubans. I rest my case!
From Mr Kwizera Ali Bin Omar
Mbarara, Uganda
Castro was a dictator
Calling someone a dictator isn’t name-calling, Mr Kwizera Ali Bin Omar. It’s a political term that precisely describes what he was.
From Ms Shaina Gregory
Dubai
Editor’s note: Is there a debate topic that you feel strongly about? Something that has to be addressed in the community and requires resolution? Email us on readers@gulfnews.com. You can also post a comment on our Facebook page or tweet to us @GNReaders.
