Obama Stepmama Makes Inauguration Plans

Nothing like counting those chickens before they come home to roost. I wonder if his half-brother George will emerge from his Kenyan hut to come celebrate?

A modest housing estate in Berkshire is a far cry from the ostentatious grounds of the White House.

But Barack Obama's stepmother could be heading to the famous address if he clinches his predicted victory in seven days' time.

Kezia Obama, who lives in an end of terrace home in Bracknell, said she is already planning her trip to the US for his inauguration.

In an exclusive interview with the London Evening Standard newspaper, the 65-year-old said she was gearing up for his win by getting together with his relatives in Kenya - who will be throwing a street party on the day of the election.
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'I knew he would go all the way. There is no doubt in my mind he is going to win it. He will be America's first black president and people will begin to respect the country once again after the Bush administration ruined its relations with the world.'

The grandmother of 10, who flew out to Nairobi on Saturday to join her three children - Auma, 48, Abo, 40, and Ben, 36 - for celebrations, added: 'I have been watching his debates on TV, staying up all through the night.

'I am excited to be in Kenya for the election night and results. We all want to be together that day. We are planning a huge street party.

We will be dancing in the streets when he wins. I will definitely be going to his inauguration when he becomes president.'

Mrs Obama, whose eldest child Abongo, 51, lives in America and is 'extremely close' to the 47-year-old presidential front runner, added: 'It makes me sad there are people out there who say they will never vote a black man for president.
'There is more to him than just his colour.'

Ian Manners, who is divorced from Mr Obama's half sister Auma, said part of Mr Obama's success was down to his ability to rise above those discriminating against him.

The 55-year-old businessman from Warfield, Berkshire, said he once told him how he was often stopped by police when driving his jeep in Chicago.

He said: 'Even when he had special number plates that only senators have, they would stop him because they thought he'd stolen it. But Barack did not allow this to be an obstacle to his success. He rose above it.'

Mr Manners added: 'He is a very determined guy. He will make a great president. He has humility and humbleness as well as great intellect.'

Somehow I've missed out on his humble humility.