Powell as next U.S. president?

Since he retired as the top military man in the U.S., Colin Powell has been tipped to become the nation's first black president. Many believe his campaign is about to begin.

For two years, the first black to head the Joint Chiefs of Staff has carefully teased the nation, encouraging millions of Americans to guess his political views and wonder whether he will become their next president.

Relying on the appeal of his characters and shining military career, he has made numerous well-paid public appearances where he has, however, shied away from discussing policy and ideology, while hinting that, yes, perhaps he might just run for the White House.

Instead, Powell, who is described by former President Gerald Ford as 'the best public speaker in America,' issues vague but inspiring calls for a return to a national sense of family and higher morality, pointing to the U.S. army as a model of sacrifice, racial tolerance and unity.

Voters sick of 'politics as usual' have eagerly cast him as the ideal 'outside' candidate in an era of anti-politics.

But the guessing game on Powell's plans could end as early as next month once the Pentagon strategist of Operation Desert Storm finishes a nationwide tour to launch his autobiography that, in one way or the other, could force him to start answering questions and to define his political future.

As it is right now, Powell avoids discussing topics such as abortion, gun control and welfare reform, and again tries to keep his presidential options open by offering no clear statement on whether he will challenge Bill Clinton and if so, whether he will run as the Republican party's nominee or as an independent.

The romantics in America say Powell could run as an independent or a third party candidate, finally giving a nod to the "Draft Powell" committees that have sprung up around the country, and possibly forge an alliance with Ross Perot's supporters, who helped gather 19 percent of the vote in 1992.

Alternatively, Powell might jump into the Republican primary race and try to blitz the crowded but lackluster field now led by Senator Bob Dole, Ford's running mate in the 1976 presidential election, who has generated so little excitement that he trails a remarkably resilient Clinton.

The fact that he turned down Clinton's offers to be his running mate in 1992 and secretary of state last year does not mean he is now not interested in those jobs.

The polls say Powell's name would ensure victory for a ticket led by Dole. It is now left to be seen whether the Mona Lisa of American politics will take up the challenge.

-- The Nation, Bangkok