Bush and Obama Criticise Trump’s Closure of USAID

Former Presidents and Bono Reflect on USAID’s Impact

In a poignant farewell ceremony on Monday, former Presidents Barack Obama and George W. Bush criticized the Trump administration’s decision to dismantle the USAID. Obama labelled the move as “a colossal mistake” and expressed deep appreciation for the agency’s staffers who are now left without jobs. This marked the last day for the USAID as an independent agency, a vital organisation founded by President John F. Kennedy over 60 years ago to foster goodwill and support international development, which is now being folded into the State Department as ordered by Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

Criticism Grows Amid Agency’s Controversial Closure

The video conference, highlighted as a closed-press event, allowed political figures to share heartfelt yet sometimes angry remarks with thousands in the USAID community. Obama, notably keeping a low profile during Trump’s presidency, decried the gutting of the agency as “a travesty and a tragedy.” He praised the work performed by USAID, which has been instrumental in saving lives and facilitating global economic growth, transforming recipient nations into trade partners for the US.

Bono and Other Voices Join the Farewell

Bush also focused on the blow this administration brings to international health initiatives, particularly the cuts to the landmark AIDS and HIV program initiated during his presidency. He recalled the success of the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), which has saved millions of lives and reinforced the importance of such aid efforts. Interestingly, Bono, the famous humanitarian singer, emotionally recited a poem and urged that the dedication of USAID staffers, once labelled criminals by some, actually showcased their commitment to humanity’s betterment.