Plea to our leaders for goodwill and decorum

Martin Zagnoev

Nelson Mandela surprised the world with his amazing grace and goodwill towards tough enemies, saving South Africa from a probable racial civil war. He and FW de Klerk did us proud by winning Nobel Peace prizes.

Yet our present parliament has degenerated into a hateful place where members have lost much of Mandela’s grace. Our leaders on most sides hysterically shout each other down, often over relatively petty matters.

Instead of debating issues, the arguments have become increasingly personal. Rather play the ball and not the person.

Instead of trying to win political points by trying to impress voters with vigorous opposition and show that they are effective, parliamentarians should also give credit where it is due. Rather focus on building up while criticising as well.

For criticism to be effective, it should have meat. To just complain about everything will diminish criticism which is important and relevant.

We often teach our children to be good and have respect, yet we encourage our leaders to be hateful. No wonder there is so much stress in our society.

Sunningdale Ridge, Johannesburg