Leadership is about far more than popularity, wealth or identity. In an increasingly complex world, a president’s understanding of diplomacy, economics and global affairs can determine whether a nation prospers or falls victim to poor decisions.

OPINION | By Nkhondo Lungu

When voters choose a president, they often weigh qualities such as charisma, financial success, popularity and, in many developing countries, tribal affiliation. Similar identity politics exists in developed nations, even if it goes by different names.

Candidates from larger ethnic groups or regions frequently enjoy an electoral advantage. Yet one quality deserves far greater attention than any other: competence.

A president must be capable of responding to complex challenges every day. Some are domestic, while others originate beyond a country’s borders. Modern leadership demands sound judgment, strategic thinking and the ability to navigate an increasingly interconnected world.

At times, international cooperation is essential. At other moments, a president must know when to resist external pressure. Malawi’s late president Bingu wa Mutharika, for example, rejected some policy demands from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank when he believed they conflicted with national interests. Argentina’s decision to default on about US$95 billion in debt in 2001, followed by lengthy negotiations that resulted in significant debt restructuring, also illustrates that governments sometimes challenge international financial orthodoxies when they believe national interests require it.

There is no universal rulebook defining what makes an effective president. However, successful leaders tend to share several traits: an understanding of international relations, economic trends, diplomacy and institutional governance. A president who lacks these fundamentals risks making costly decisions that affect generations.

Global crises often create opportunities alongside risks. The Russia-Ukraine war disrupted supplies of grain, fertiliser, fuel, medicines and other essential commodities. While many countries suffered shortages, some governments accelerated domestic production and invested in industries that reduced dependence on imports. Effective leaders recognise such moments and position their countries to benefit rather than simply absorb the consequences.

The same principle applies to trade disputes and geopolitical tensions. Presidents must anticipate international risks, build strategic alliances where beneficial and avoid unnecessary diplomatic confrontations. They should inspire confidence among investors, development partners and neighbouring states while remaining focused on advancing national interests.

Foreign policy should also reflect a country’s stated values. A president must be able to project national priorities consistently, earning credibility and respect abroad through principled and coherent diplomacy.

Engagement with international institutions requires careful judgment. Organisations such as the United Nations and global trade bodies play important roles in international cooperation, but participation should never be automatic. Governments must continually assess whether membership and commitments serve their national interests.

Critics have made similar arguments about the International Criminal Court (ICC), contending that its prosecutions have disproportionately involved African leaders while leaders from more powerful states have largely escaped accountability. Supporters of the court dispute that interpretation, arguing that many investigations were initiated at the request of African governments themselves. Whatever one’s view, the bigger lesson remains: presidents must carefully evaluate the costs and benefits of every international commitment rather than assume that participation is always advantageous.

The challenge is to strike the right balance between multilateral cooperation and independent action. There are circumstances where regional or global engagement advances national interests, and others where a country is better served by pursuing its own course. Wise leaders understand the difference.

Strong leadership also depends on effective institutions. A president requires reliable intelligence, professional diplomats and well-coordinated government agencies capable of providing timely, accurate information. In an age of rapid technological change and instant communication, decisions must be informed by facts rather than instinct.

Integrity is equally important. Transparency, accountability and ethical governance strengthen a country’s credibility at home and abroad. Leaders who uphold these standards are generally better placed to negotiate partnerships and attract investment.

Ultimately, elections should not be reduced to charisma, wealth or tribal identity. The presidency is one of the most demanding offices in public life. It requires intellectual curiosity, strategic vision and the ability to adapt to an evolving global environment.

When countries elect leaders who lack these qualities, the consequences can be severe. Poorly negotiated contracts, unsustainable debt, exploitation of natural resources and unfavourable international agreements often stem from weak leadership rather than unavoidable circumstances.

Competence is not a luxury in the presidency. It is the bedrock on which national security, economic prosperity and international credibility are built.

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