No harm in council looking inward

WHEN politicians become introspective – which is not often – it is probably a good thing. The mayoral committee’s two day “bosberaad” hopefully signals a deep concern over the general running of the city, rather than a closing of ranks over the Scorpions’ investigations which are presently under way.

It is understood that issues such as the under-performance of municipal manager Mzimasi Mangcotywa and the high cost of his litigious actions are among the concerns.

No one should be surprised at his dismal showing. The former MPL was an out and out political appointee and never really had the experience for the complex job expected of him. Perhaps a lesson has been learnt from the error of becoming enslaved to ideological objectives as we did in disposing of the services of Graham Richards, who was highly competent.

While the need for affirmative action is understood, it must be constructively applied. That should be borne in mind as the council continues to implement this contentious policy, especially with so much due to happen before the 2010 World Cup.

It was also interesting to see the ANC regional council applying the firm hand of correction at the weekend, with Mike Xego’s attack on the Scorpions and colonial statues coming under the spotlight. His clash with regional secretary Vuyo Toto over the statue issue was apparently not appreciated.

Perhaps the outspoken Xego would be more comfortable in a political party that allowed its members to speak freely. He seems to have forgotten that the ANC does not tolerate individuals expressing views which are contrary to the official position.

---

SA space hero Mike shows the right stuff

AS a boy in Natal, Michael Melvill studied the flight of eagles as his spirit soared with them. This week, as the world now knows, he rocketed way above mere birds, becoming the first private flier to leave the world and touch the limitless realm of space.

It’s an inspirational achievement, one which was made at enormous risk, winning him a place in the record books and also those coveted wings which go only to the few.

His astonishing feat was accomplished not only by courage but by dogged hard work – most of it as a commercial test pilot in the United States.

And this man is no youngster. At 63, Melvill has showed that true adventure is for those who dare.

Problematical though his flight certainly was, he has opened the way for commercial flights into space and set many hearts towards the stars.

Like Mark Shuttleworth, the young South African millionaire who paid to fly on a Russian space mission, Melvill will inspire all who search for greater knowledge of the universe of which the Earth is so miniscule a part.

He has set new frontiers to be crossed. And he has shown the world what can be achieved by pursuing a dream by acquiring the knowledge and skill needed to make it come true.

May he continue to soar – and to lead the way, bringing honour to his country as he joins the heroes of exploration, space and flight.