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Comment from Understand The Times:

It is a well known political fact that charisma is a key factor for winning elections. The election of Obama, for example, was largely because of his charisma and also the media hype which can manipulate charisma.

Now we hear about Europe needing a leader with charisma. Hello!

Some day soon, there will arise a leader with charisma. He will have solutions to problems. Isn't that interesting? There are a lot of problems in the world. Who and how were the problems created by? Who will have the solutions for these problems?

Be aware that the solution to all these problems may look good, but it will be worse than having the problems. Hello, again

September 8 - 'Europe Needs a Directly Elected Leader with Charisma'

European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso came out with plenty of fine words during his "state of the union" speech on Tuesday. But his blandness is unlikely to increase support for the EU among Europeans, say observers. German commentators are unimpressed.

But Barroso, who is not known for his charisma or public speaking ability, could only suffer through such comparisons. And indeed, his address, which consisted mainly of a list of the EU's recent accomplishments and its future plans, met with a lukewarm response.

Barroso was criticized both for blandness and for not speaking out clearly on issues such as the deportation of Roma in France, which the EU has expressly criticized.

Commentators writing in the Wednesday editions of Germany's main newspapers give their verdict on Barroso's speech. The consensus is that Europe needs a more passionate advocate if ordinary people are to overcome their apathy regarding the EU.

"Instead of revealing what he really thinks, Barroso remained true to his nickname of the 'chameleon' and spouted elegant, meaningless phrases about 'green' jobs, the fight against racism and the blessings of the internal market. Such a speech does nothing to reduce the general dissatisfaction with the EU. In order to stand up to the self-centeredness of the national capitals, Europe needs a directly elected leader with charisma."