Obama added that his role now is to help nurture future leaders rather than return to frontline politics.
By Kehinde Okeowo
Former United States President Barack Obama has ruled out the possibility of returning to elective politics, saying it could cost him his marriage.
He made this known during a recent interview where he noted that he no longer sees himself as a politician.
‘First of all, I’m not a politician anymore and I can’t be,’ Obama said.
He added that while the law might allow him to contest certain offices, he has no desire to do so, jokingly saying his wife, Michelle, would frown upon it.
‘I believe in the Constitution, and I also believe in my marriage. Michelle would divorce me if I even tried to run again,’ he added.
ALSO READ: Nigerian-born U.S. Marine, Chukwuemeka Oforah, dies after falling off ship
Obama further explained that life after the White House has shifted his focus towards mentorship and inspiration, particularly among younger generations.
According to him: ‘Michelle and I still have the capacity to inspire and motivate young people and invite them into this process.’
The former president argued that meaningful political renewal must be driven by young adults who are more attuned to current economic and social realities.
‘That change is going to come from the 20- and 30-year-olds. They’re the ones who will remake our institutions,’ he said.
Obama also expressed concern about the state of political discourse in the United States, warning that social media-driven theatrics and constant outrage have diluted serious engagement.
He maintained that his role now is to help nurture future leaders rather than return to frontline politics.
