The State Department has issued a couple of interesting press releases . Regretfully both of these releases have people wondering not only what the changes within the Department will do to further advance the policy of the Trump Administration and why does it appear that our Diplomats are so timid.
Let’s look at what the timid Diplomatic Corps said first. Over the last few days a series of attacks launched in the States of Borno, Imo, Benue and Plateau in Nigeria.. The attacks resulted in the deaths of dozens of people. an attack in Taraba State resulted in 42 additional people killed.
On May 28th the US Embassy in Abuja issued a uniquely worded statement regarding the series of attacks. The Embassy annouced that it is deeply saddened by the recent attacks. This sounds good so far. It would further state that the ongoing threats faced by communities and community leaders are deeply troubling. the stand by the embassy is indeed promising here. It would extend their heartfelt condolences to those affected by these senseless attacks. The choice of the word senseless is indeed impressive.
Here is where the statement fell short of its intended goals. First, the embassy looks forward to the Nigerian Government to conduct thorugh investigations into these attacks and hold those responsible accountable. It is a rare occurence to see any arrests of individuals that are known to participate in attacks are tried for their roles in the never ending series of atrocities in Nigeria.
The second problem is the timing of the statement. There is no mention at all of the attack in Taraba State when released. Why wasn’t this mentioned? Was it that it took place on a Holiday in the United States? Was the statement was already prepared by the embassy for a specific time of release?
Meanwhile in Washington, The State Department transmitted to Congress a letter on May 29th. This letter contained the plans of Secretary of State Marco Rubio to reorganize the State Department into a more America First Posture.
One key move regarding Africa stood out. The Office for Sudan and South Sudan will be realigned with the Office of East African Affairs. The Position of Special Envoy will report to the Secretary for Regulatory Affairs. It would be nice if this position was filled.
Routine matters for this office will be handled by the Assistant Secretary for African Affairs.
