What Is "Banana Republic", The Political Term Bush Uses To Criticize The Capitol Riots

GW Bush (Source: Commons Wikimedia)

JAKARTA - United States Secretary of State (US) Mike Pompeo rejected criticism from former US President George W. Bush, who called the US "Banana Republic." The criticism was delivered by Bush after the riots carried out by Donald Trump's supporters at the Capitol Building, Washington.

"The slander reveals a misconception about the banana republic and democracy in America," Pompeo said on Twitter.

"In Banana Republic, mass violence determines the exercise of power. In the United States, law enforcement officials stop mass violence so that representatives of the people can exercise power in accordance with the rule of law and constitutional government," he said, quoting Fox News, Friday, January 8, 2021.

The unrest by Trump's supporters comes as a session of Congress certifies the victory of US elected president Joe Biden. The riot left the MPs isolated.

The rioting also left four people dead, including one pro-Trump demonstrator who was shot. In addition, 68 were also detained, according to Washington DC police. Pompeo also condemned the violence, calling it unacceptable.

"I have traveled to many countries and have always supported the right of every human being to protest peacefully for their beliefs and goals," said Pomeo. "But violence, which endangers the safety of others, including those tasked with providing security for all of us, cannot be tolerated, both at home and abroad."

After the chaos, the MP went on to the certification process from the Electoral College. Some Republicans who initially vowed against the election results because of allegations of cheating they believed, since December 14 - or after the election by electors - began to recognize Biden's victory. One by one.

US Vice President Mike Pence, who has announced he will not give up voters' wishes, confirmed Biden's victory. Pompeo noted that the official certification of Congressional voters "demonstrates the strength of America's political institutions and represents a victory for the rule of law and constitutional government in America."

Banana Republic, Bush's rebuke

Bush previously released a statement responding to unrest in the Capitol. He condemned the storming of the US Capitol Building on Wednesday, January 6 afternoon and described it as sickening and heartbreaking.

Bush criticized his fellow Republicans for instigating an uprising, likening the situation to a "Banana Republic."

"I am shocked by the reckless behavior of some political leaders since the election and the lack of respect shown today for our institution, our traditions and our rule of law."

In political science, the term "Banana Republic" describes a politically unstable country with an economy dependent on the export of limited resource products, such as bananas or minerals.

Barack Obama also blamed the Republican Party and Donald Trump, "who continued to lie baselessly about the legitimate election results" in a statement. The former president called the storming of the US Capitol Building a "moment of great disgrace and disgrace for our nation."