THE POLITICIAN IS SUPPORTED BY THE PEOPLE. THE LEADER TAKES HIS SHARE OF THE BURDEN. Since independence, too many African political leaders have confused the wealth of their country with their personal fortune. They got rich, settled their families in comfort and sheltered their fortunes abroad, while their populations remained prisoners of precariousness. They promised us the future while blocking the doors to the present. They demanded patience and sacrifice from the people. For themselves, they demanded privileges and luxury. Speeches on patriotism, but personal interests which came before those of the nation. Today, with Captain Ibrahim Traoré, Assimi Goïta and General Abdourahamane Tiani, we see in the AES another conception of power: that of leaders who claim sovereignty and assume the confrontation that it implies. It is this desire to take responsibility that fuels our support. Because a leader must walk ahead when the path becomes dangerous. He must share the trials of his people, defend the integrity of his territory and accept that serving his nation can cost him his comfort, his privileges, even his life. The courage of a leader is measured by the responsibilities he assumes and the actions he takes for his people. This image sums up our requirement: we want leaders who put their strengths at the service of the country, take the rope and pull with us. For you, what distinguishes a true leader from a demagogue politician? In your country, are your leaders pulling the country along with the people, or are they being carried on its back? Tell us in the comments.