Donald Trump, America’s rich and affluent businessman, is all set to take office in January as the most powerful man on this planet. The person who has violated basic norms of international diplomacy; is electing individuals with no relevant experience for cabintet posts; is stirring up racial hatred and anti-semitism; is supported and celebrated by the Ku Klux Klan, will weild power over not only his own nation, but the world. It has also been said that Russia’s president, Vladimir Putin, may have been involved in a Russian plot to interfere with the elections. However, there is a remote chance that this may not happen. Five weeks ago, even though millions of Americans voted for Hillary Clinton, Donald Trump won the election under America’s antiquated electoral system. The vote which really seems to matter will take place early this week when 538 members of America’s electoral college will gather in the capitals of their respective states. Under a complex system, the winner of the majority of the electoral votes would become president. If 37 of Trump’s 306 electors do not vote for him, he would have only 296 votes – one short of the majority and the tables would turn against him and Hillary may take charge. It would be interresting to wait and watch what turns out this week. From India’s point of view, Hillary and her husband Bill Clinton’s policies are anti-India while those of Donald Trump are more favourable to India.
Dinesh Sheth
Newbury Park, Ilford
