Lessons in Leadership Transitions: From the Vatican to the Ballot Box

Congratulations to the over 1.4 billion Catholic community for a flawless and successful transition as His Holiness, Pope Leo XIV, is enthroned as the new Pope.

As soon as he was elected, it didn’t matter the race, country, color, or tribe; the entire Catholic Community erupted in joyful bliss. That is what should happen after every transition.

May the service of Pope Leo XIV bring the best of fortunes, blessings, joy, and social justice to the world.

Democracy revolves around the integrity of those in the political arena and how they balance their visions while preserving a system that should unify the people and ultimately bring good fortune to the citizens.

As I considered how we could turn our country around for better days, my mind wandered to the Conclave that pulls the College of Cardinals together to elect a new Pope. As soon as a new Pope emerges, all Cardinals and every other person in the Catholic faith from then on begin to pray for the Pope during masses.

The second is the US electoral process in which a presidential hopeful can lose the majority of votes but still become president through the Electoral College pathway. Immediately, the Electors speak and are confirmed by the Senate; everyone falls in line. One may not agree with the President, but those who do not like him or his policies will patiently wait for the next four years. No decamping, no finding a shortcut to remove him—and the next thing that everyone rallies around is America.

One thing common with the two systems mentioned above is entrenched internal democracy. Second, the systems have effectively served the Catholic Church and the United States.

In my dear country, I have witnessed many churches struggle due to transitions. Our political systems have consistently faced challenges during times of transition because of the lack of entrenched internal democracy. This has to stop.

Why can’t we develop our own homegrown religious and political transition systems that are unique to us and that will ensure stability after each change, just like we had Option A4 by the late Professor Nwosu?

I think the time has come to be original in all we do—without killing the very essence of democracy.

Grace and peace!!!