If you’re of the view that Donald Trump’s presidency is lacking leadership in tough times, then look no further than his predecessor’s latest tweets.
Barack Obama’s attempt at unity – in the aftermath of far-right violence in Virginia – has become the most-liked message ever-posted on the social network.
As if filling a vacuum left by Trump, the tweet has been given the thumbs up more than 2.9 million times, as of 10 am CET.
Writing after one person was killed when a car ploughed into anti-fascist protesters in Charlottesville, Obama chose to quote Nelson Mandela’s words from his autobiography, Long Walk to Freedom.
“No one is born hating another person because of the color [sic] of his skin or his background or his religion,” wrote Obama, alongside a picture of him speaking to a group of children looking out of a window.
“People must learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love.
“For love comes more naturally to the human heart than its opposite.”
It comes after President Donald Trump once again blamed both sides for the violent unrest in Charlottesville, refusing to single out either the white supremacist demonstrators or the anti-fascist protesters who opposed them.
The leader has stirred controversy for refusing to immediately condemn neo-Nazism in the wake of the clashes.
How Donald Trump reacted
What is vital now is a swift restoration of law and order and the protection of innocent lives.#Charlottesville
We must remember this truth: No matter our color, creed, religion or political party, we are ALL AMERICANS FIRST.
We will continue to follow developments in Charlottesville, and will provide whatever assistance is needed. We are ready, willing and able.
Condolences to the family of the young woman killed today, and best regards to all of those injured, in Charlottesville, Virginia. So sad!
How Barack Obama reacted
“No one is born hating another person because of the color of his skin or his background or his religion…”
“No one is born hating another person because of the color of his skin or his background or his religion…” pic.twitter.com/InZ58zkoAm
“People must learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love…”
“People must learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love…”
“…For love comes more naturally to the human heart than its opposite.” – Nelson Mandela