In China, the country before the leader: In Africa, the head of state before the country

In China, President Xi Jinping's portrait is mainly displayed in the Communist Party Museum, reflecting a view where the permanence belongs to the people, civilization, and the nation, rather than to the individual or political system. Chinese governance emphasizes historical and cultural continuity, trusting the people for over 5,000 years. Unlike Africa, where portraits of heads of state are common in offices and streets, China promotes civilization and culture as the foundations of legitimacy. The lesson for Africa is that power should be based on the longevity of the people and culture rather than on the leader’s image.