Inside the mind of a dictator, i-perspective

The future seems uncertain, but the sure thing is blockchain will disrupt multiple centers of power and the days of dictators are numbered. The rise and rise of new technologies like blockchain, IoT, AI, Quantum Computing, etc, has not stopped the obsession for power around the world. This got me thinking, what really goes down in the mind of a dictator. The African dictators are the worst. All of them are self imposed, self proclaimed life presidents, the likes of Robert Mugabe of Zimbabwe, José Eduardo dos Santos of Angola, Paul Biya of Cameroun, Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo of Equatorial Guinea, Idriss Deby of Chad, the list goes on. They have seen generations rise and fall, they have no shame, no regard for fresh ideas. My interest here is not to list them but to explore what goes on in their minds in such a dynamic world. Its interesting for me to explore because, between today and end of 2018, the African continent will have elections in more than 21 countries, and these dictators will remain in power against all odds, despite being bankrupt and clueless of how to steer innovations in their countries. Here is what I think goes on in the mind of a dictator;

Irrational fear of fate
One common trait amongst dictators is fear of what may befall them, this fear could be unknown or known. While they portray themselves as bold and humorous personalities, deep inside they are useless cowards. They cannot confront their fears, fears of the past and fear of the future. Imagine what Africa could be like, with leaders that are courageous, brave and wise. These pathetic leaders abuse power while in office, and would rather die in office for fear of arrests. A classic commonality among dictators is that they are myopic and short sighted. They can’t see beyond themselves. They are not ambitious enough to leave a legacy to their names.

Psychopath tendencies
Most Africa dictators are extremely self-absorbed, masterful liars, ruthless, most often sadistic, and possess a boundless appetite for power. These attributes are common characteristics of a straight psychopath. They would kill everything in their way to remain tied to power. They shift blame to other people for faults or problems in their spaces. For African dictators its pretty easy, “just blame it on the former colonies”.

Exaggerated sense of self importance
Most of the African dictators rose to the ranks through deposing another oppressor. In their early days, they are often celebrated as liberators. They are good at amassing the gratification around them. In fact, in their minds they see themselves as very special people deserving esteem and admiration. They feel very important and think there were uniquely created. Most times they are lost in own fantasies of triumph and command.

I should say this is just the beginning of my exploits, In my next piece, I will attempt to share more traits of African dictators and how I think technologies like blockchain can dislodge these senseless people.