When New Hampshire state Representative Richard Komi was sworn in this week, he finished an amazing transition from political refugee to state lawmaker.
Just 10 years ago, Komi left a refugee camp in Benin for New Hampshire. He had lived in the refugee camp for 3 years after fleeing Nigeria. He fled Nigeria after the government cracked down on an environmental protests he was involved with.
In 10 years, Komi went to college, got married, started a family, found work, bought a home and ran for political office.
Komi expressed pleasure with American democracy.
“There were people who were pleased to receive me into their homes and shared with me their concerns about the government. And there were other people who just shut the door in my face … I concluded this is exactly what democracy should be about.”
Comparing his experience to Nigeria, Komi said, “To hear that you could cast a vote, or could actually stand as a candidate … that was something that was beyond our imagination.”
Komi has expressed interest in pursuing higher office. “I believe if I have a good character, if I prove myself to the people I will be a better servant, they will give me the opportunity to run for a higher office.”
After the Rod Blagojevich story, it’s nice to know there are still some good people in politics.
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