Columnist’s commentary on Zuma lacks analysis

RYLAND Fisher’s columns have become rather predictable. Some of his assertions and commentary are thin on content and he makes no detailed analyses of facts to support his assumptions.

Last weekend he wrote that the marches against President Jacob Zuma over the past few weeks were “a shift in power relations in South Africa”. Yes, thousands marched against the president shuffling his cabinet (his right as head of state and not illegal) but how is this a shift in power relations?

Fisher holds the president in low esteem and the president is fair game, but the argument should not be based on personality traits. He says the president violated court orders, but our constitution allows all citizens the right to appeal any matter.

When the president lost his Nkandla matter in the Constitutional Court, he abided by its ruling.

It is fascinating reading Fisher’s views on race, which show a marked contrast from the views he expressed in his book Race, especially in the chapter dealing with racism in the media. The most apt response is that “not all Republicans are members of the Klu Klux Klan, but all Klu Klux Klan members are Republicans”.

The sad reality is that racism is alive and well. The ANC government should be doing more to boost growth, but to dump everything on Zuma is short sighted and lacks insight.

Sadly, Fisher fails to match the basic rule of good political commentary – play the ball not the man. Deal with policy not personalities. Throw-away lines concocted as opinions don’t enhance sound debate.