Editor,

I wish to express my heartfelt congratulations to the President-elect of the United States of America - Barack Obama.

Congratulations to the people of America, too, for their maturity, courage and level-headedness in making this difficult but the rightful choice. President-elect Obama represents hope, inspiration, courage and, of course, a bright future.

The emergence of President Obama, one must admit, has stunned the whole world. But then, that was because he was pretty new in the scene and barely known. However, the way and manner in which Obama planned, organized and conducted his campaign from the 'Primaries' to the Presidential, was second to none in the history of politics.

He is a prodigy who became the darling of the entire free world. His cool and calm conduct and character throughout his campaign has won him admiration both from friends and foes. There is no doubt that Barack Obama has opened a new chapter in the world history of politics. His organization and mobilization skills, oratory prowess, humility, dedication and consistency were beyond imagination. Barack Obama has introduced into politics an extraordinary passion, inspiration, courage, confidence and above all hope, even for the hopeless.

People all over the world warmly welcomed his emergence as the shining light of the new dawn with open hands. Like a magnet, the President-elect has attracted the attention of the whole world. His campaign slogan called for change and emphasized - 'Yes We Can'. His well delivered messages have been optimistic and captivating, making him a universal fountain of hope and inspiration. Americans and the rest of the world look forward to a brighter future under the Obama Presidency.

May God grant him that realty. Congratulations, keep it up.

Ceesay Yahya
London