Liberation Day: Is Donald Trump a ‘Bewakoof’ Politician or a Strategic Populist?

By Fazlullah for RAHAMATABAD.COM
Date: 13 April 2025

Why the Title “Liberation Day”?

On this day, we introduce the idea of Liberation Day — a symbolic call for the liberation of minds from media bias, shallow opinions, and emotional reactions. It urges us to think deeper, question narratives, and seek clarity. This article explores the global and Indian perception of Donald Trump, a controversial figure who continues to be labeled a “bewakoof politician” (foolish politician).

Is the label fair? Is it political mockery, or is there substance behind the claim? Today, we look beyond the slogans.

The Roots of the “Bewakoof” Label

1. Dhruv Rathee’s Criticism

Indian YouTuber and influencer Dhruv Rathee, known for his evidence-based political commentary, has consistently criticized Trump throughout his presidency. From climate change denial, racist immigration policies, to his handling of COVID-19, Rathee often described Trump as uninformed, arrogant, and dangerous. While he avoids crude words like “bewakoof,” his tone clearly reflects this sentiment.

2. Indian Public Discourse

Across Indian social media platforms, Trump was widely mocked. During events like:

• The suggestion of injecting disinfectant for COVID-19,
• Calling global warming a hoax,
• Praising Kim Jong-un while insulting Western allies,

People used Hindi and Urdu words like “bewakoof,” “paagal,” “nasamajh,” and “ahmaq”.

Memes portraying Trump as a confused clown or “America ka Gabbar Singh” went viral, especially during the Capitol Hill insurrection on January 6, 2021.

3. Media and Intellectual Voices

Globally respected media like The Guardian, CNN, BBC, and The New York Times referred to Trump as:

• Unfit for office
• Authoritarian in style
• Ignorant of diplomacy and science

Political analysts from Harvard, Princeton, and Oxford described him as a threat to democratic norms. They highlighted his lack of historical awareness, personal attacks on rivals, and use of misinformation as signs of shallow leadership.

Arguments in Favor: Is Trump Really That Foolish?

Despite the criticism, Trump has strong defenders who argue he’s far from “bewakoof.” Here’s their logic:

1. Unfiltered Political Genius

Trump spoke directly to the people, bypassing media filters. His use of Twitter as a weapon of mass influence was unmatched. In fact, his rhetorical simplicity, mocked as “dumb,” helped him emotionally connect with millions.

2. A Disruptor, Not a Fool

He reshaped:

• U.S. foreign policy (Jerusalem embassy, NATO pressure),
• Trade war with China (protecting U.S. interests),
• Supreme Court appointments (conservative majority),

and inspired similar populist movements in Brazil, India, UK, and Hungary.

3. Economic Decisions

Under Trump:

• Unemployment hit record lows pre-COVID,
• Corporate tax was slashed,
• Markets reached historic highs,
• Deregulation boosted businesses.

His business-first ideology was praised by industries and Republicans, even if it angered activists.

The Capitol Hill Riot: The Tipping Point

On January 6, 2021, a mob of Trump supporters stormed the U.S. Capitol after he refused to accept his election loss. This single day damaged his global image like nothing else.

It was called:

• “An attack on democracy” by Joe Biden,
• “Disgraceful” by EU leaders,
• “Criminal incitement” by many in U.S. Congress.

This event strengthened the ‘bewakoof’ narrative, as critics said he behaved not like a statesman but like a dictator in denial.

The Abandonment of Global Leadership

During Trump’s presidency:

• The U.S. pulled out of the Paris Climate Agreement.
• He withdrew from the WHO during a pandemic.
• He insulted allies like Germany, Canada, and France.

Leaders like Angela Merkel, Emmanuel Macron, and Justin Trudeau expressed discomfort with Trump’s unpredictability and impulsive tone.

He was seen as isolating the U.S., weakening long-standing partnerships, and favoring nationalism over diplomacy — a trait many call short-sighted and, yes, foolish.

Final Analysis: Is ‘Bewakoof’ a Fair Word?

Let’s break it down:

Donald Trump is not a fool. He is a populist disruptor who challenges systems — but often without responsibility, foresight, or ethics. He knows how to rally emotion, but not always how to lead wisely. That is why people label him “bewakoof” — not because he lacks intelligence, but because he misuses it.

Trump is a master of mobilization, but he lacks the wisdom that is often necessary for long-term governance. He has an uncanny ability to appeal to the anger of the masses, but his policy decisions, especially concerning global diplomacy, public health, and social unity, have often been reckless and short-sighted.

What Does Liberation Day Teach Us?

Liberation Day asks us to:

• Liberate from emotion-led opinions.
• Think with depth, not memes.
• Judge leaders with context, not just anger.

Trump is not a one-word man. He is:

• Smart in mobilization,
• Reckless in governance,
• Worshipped by followers,
• Feared by institutions.

Calling him ‘bewakoof’ oversimplifies one of the most complex leaders of our time.

Conclusion

Whether loved or loathed, Trump cannot be ignored. He will remain a political force — perhaps in the 2024 elections, or as a global symbol of modern populism.

On Liberation Day, we must go beyond emotional labels like bewakoof and seek truth — no matter how uncomfortable.

By Fazlullah for RAHAMATABAD.COM
Published: 13 April 2025