IN politics, soft power is a persuasive approach to international relations. A leader can use soft power by exerting economic, cultural or reputational influence. His hard power aside, soft power is something Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame possesses in spades. One of Africa’s long-serving leaders, Kagame wields soft power to deal with international criticism of his authoritarianism and human rights abuses. Author KEITH GOTTSCHALK, Political Scientist, University of the Western Cape As a political scientist, I have been tracking developments in Africa’s governance and democracy, integration and peace-keeping. In my view, the recent Paul Rusesabagina saga was the first misstep that…