The saga of the “Dear Government” letter seems to have calmed, the emotions have subsided, but a different view has emerged in the form of commentator Justin Foxton, who blogs for Thought Leader (associated with the Mail & Guardian). This is some of what Justin had to say.
“Thank you for taking the time to write your letter to the government. I am certain it will be forwarded on many thousands of times and the GC brand will be all the stronger for it.
“Your transition from voice of 5FM to voice of the people has been fascinating to watch. You always manage to capture the mood of your audience just right, saying what most others are thinking but aren’t able to say for fear of being branded a racist, bigot, politically naïve or simply unhelpful.
“The problem is that this kind of rhetoric doesn’t really help to build the nation does it GC? Yes, it helps to build the smart guy GC brand — but not the nation.
“Yes, you are a talented disk spinner with a quick wit and a fiery tongue but you’re not really in the business of helping to nurture this nation to full health are you GC?
Foxton continues: “Why don’t you advocate for a new type of citizen who takes responsibility at every opportunity, who doggedly works to solve the problems they have in their little corner of our country, and who refuses to indulge in finger pointing and mindless leader bashing. Isn’t it time we grow up? Isn’t it time we stop bawling like little children “it’s their fault! It’s their fault” and start to get accountable ourselves.
“I doubt many of your fans put up with sewage running down their streets. Most of them are in the bracket that can really make a difference. But if all they are told by role models like you is that it is someone else’s problem, guess what? Quick as a flash nothing will change in our country.
“Please GC — you have a voice. Use it wisely.” – Note, Foxton’s comments have also been published on Times Live.
*What’s interesting here about the internet, blogging and new media, is that if you’re happy to use the medium, then you can’t complain when others take you on using the same methods. I’m sure Cliff, who welcomes robust debate and fights for the right to free expression would take Justin Foxton’s comments on the chin . . . and then add his spice to the mix. Whoever is right or wrong in this case, healthy debate definitely helps us to grow and mature as a nation.
Now what would be really interesting here, is if we could get “GC” to comment in response. Gareth? Are you out there? – Garth Johnstone