Abon’go Malik Obama, the half-brother of former President Barack Obama, has made claims his sibling still holds significant influence over American politics and the Democratic Party.

In a recent interview, Malik expressed concerns about the former president’s involvement behind the scenes, particularly as it pertains to Vice President Kamala Harris and, according to Malik, Barack is still “running the country behind closed doors,” orchestrating key decisions within the party, as the New York Post reports.

Malik, who has had a longstanding estrangement from his brother, voiced his disappointment in Barack's presidency and the direction of the Democratic Party, leading him to endorse Donald Trump in recent elections.

The falling out between the brothers reportedly began towards the end of Barack's first term, with the breakdown of their relationship tied to issues with Malik’s charity. Since then, Malik has become increasingly critical of his brother’s political career, claiming that Barack's presidency did not meet his expectations.

Barack's Alleged Role in Harris' Rise

One of Malik’s main concerns is what he sees as his brother’s influence in Vice President Kamala Harris’ political career. He alleges that Barack played a role in the Democratic Party’s decision to replace President Biden with Harris on the presidential ticket without holding a primary vote. Malik also speculated that Barack and Harris are in regular communication, suggesting that his brother would play a crucial role in shaping a potential Harris administration.

“He’s going to be extremely influential in whatever goes on should they win,” Malik said, expressing his belief that Barack remains heavily involved in the highest levels of Democratic politics.

Estrangement And Criticism of Barack's Presidency

The rift between the Obama brothers is not new. Malik openly criticized Barack’s presidency, suggesting that his half-brother has grown arrogant and disconnected from his roots. Malik, who once supported the Democratic Party, shifted his allegiance to the Republican Party during Barack’s first term, citing a deep dissatisfaction with Democratic policies.

Malik has been vocal about his disillusionment with Barack’s post-presidency wealth, accusing him of becoming “rich” while losing touch with the everyday struggles of people, particularly in his home country of Kenya. “He’s not like the person he used to be,” Malik remarked, calling his brother “fake as a snake.”

Malik's Support for Donald Trump

Malik’s dissatisfaction with Barack and the Democratic Party led him to endorse Donald Trump in the 2016, 2020, and 2024 presidential elections. Malik’s decision to back Trump, a sharp contrast to his brother’s political views, underscores the ideological divide between the two.

In the 2016 election, Malik famously accompanied Trump during a debate against Hillary Clinton, a symbolic moment that highlighted his break from the Obama family’s political alignment. However, he has not appeared in recent campaign events, although he remains a registered Republican voter and staunch supporter of Trump’s policies.

Kamala Harris' Presidential Campaign Under Scrutiny

In addition to his criticisms of Barack, Malik also took aim at Harris, questioning her track record and the lack of media scrutiny on her presidential campaign. Malik suggested that Harris has not done enough during her time in office to warrant a successful run for the presidency. He expressed disbelief that she hadn’t already implemented the policies she is currently promoting, stating, “She’s been in office for four good years.”

Malik also noted what he perceives as favoritism in media coverage, claiming that the press has been lenient on Harris and is actively pushing her presidential bid. “She needs to be scrutinized more,” he said, referring to Harris’ previous run for president and her current position as vice president.

Concerns Over Immigration and Media Bias

Malik further expressed his concerns over the handling of immigration issues in the U.S., focusing on the challenges faced by legal immigrants. He condemned the perceived leniency toward undocumented migrants, stating, “We cannot just have people crossing the Rio Grande,” and pointing to what he sees as excessive benefits being given to those who enter the country illegally.

He also criticized media outlets for not holding Harris and other Democratic figures accountable, contrasting the treatment of Republican candidates like Donald Trump. Malik emphasized that he believed Trump’s blunt approach was necessary, describing him as “fearless” and someone who “wasn’t there just for the image.”

Reflecting on Broader Political Climate

Malik’s criticisms are not solely directed at his brother or Kamala Harris. He also expressed frustration with the Democratic Party as a whole, calling them “hypocrites” who fail to live up to their promises. This sentiment, Malik explained, was a driving factor behind his decision to align with the Republican Party in 2008 and support Trump’s candidacy.

Throughout his statements, Malik conveyed his disappointment with what he perceives as a growing divide between political elites and ordinary citizens. He remains skeptical of the influence wielded by figures like Barack Obama and Kamala Harris, cautioning against what he sees as a concentration of power within the Democratic establishment.

Conclusion

In recent comments, Malik Obama has renewed his criticisms of his half-brother, former President Barack Obama, and Vice President Kamala Harris.

He believes that Barack still holds considerable influence within the Democratic Party and the broader political landscape, particularly in shaping Harris’ presidential ambitions.

Malik, who has endorsed Donald Trump in multiple elections, continues to voice his concerns about the direction of U.S. politics and the media’s role in shaping public perception.