A Few Words About the Organization of African Unity ... (Has Anything Changed?)

"Since its inception in 1964 [sic], the OAU has achieved the unenviable distinction of being the most useless organization on the African continent. It can't even define 'democracy' ... Largely a den of unrepentant despots, the OAU is more noted for its glittery annual jamborees -- where rabid autocrats clink champagne glasses to celebrate their longevity in office."

George BN Ayittey, Ghanaian economist and president of the Free Africa Foundation, from 'The UN's Shameful Record in Africa', The Wall Street Journal, 26 July 1996.

"To speak out, individually or collectively, would be internal interference, violating an unwritten code in the fraternity of Africa's presidents. Leave me alone to run my country the way I want, and I'll leave you alone to do the same; that way we'll both stay in power a lot longer."

David Lamb, eight-time Pulitzer Prize nominee and Los Angeles Times correspondent, from his book The Africans, published in 1983.