The Editor, Sir:

President-elect Barack Obama's ascension to the highest political office in the United States is a welcome and timely one, a paradigm shift in the sociopolitical landscape of American politics, which for many Americans, was long overdue.

America should be commended for the direction it has taken over the past several decades, in dealing with the issue of racial segregation, which had permeated and polarised it. It was due to the strides made in desegregation that Mr Obama's presidential ambition could be realised.

It is important though, that persons celebrating Mr Obama's success, not see this victory as mission accomplished for a particular race, lest they too be seen as endorsing racial divisiveness, which Americans have fought to shed. Instead it should be seen as a defining moment, which recognises that colour should not be the measuring stick by which one's capabilities are determined but instead one's aptitude and ability.

Mr Obama will no doubt have a tremendous global impact. The policies implemented by his administration will most likely determine whether he will be able to galvanise and engage world leaders and change the world's view of America.

The economic problems being experienced in his country which has catapulted it into a recession, might never be resolved during his tenure, but he might very well be the catalyst and inspiration that Americans need to take them out of the mess that the Bush administration has created.

Issues of global importance

America needed someone who could engage issues of global fundamental importance rationally and from a pragmatic perspective. Mr Obama brings a fresh new perspective that requires change and might very well be the man to succeed in this regard. Only time will tell.

I am, etc.,

ERROL McLEISH

ermarlii16@hotmail.com

Daytona, Greater Portmore

St Catherine