Zuma's concern is legitimate . But what is at issue is whether or not criticism of his administration is groundless . By its nature constructive criticism is harsh and seeks to negate negative practices. Since the dawn of democracy, every state of the nation speech has acknowledged progress by the government.

In the same vein the ANC has acknowledged that together we can do better.

Lack of leadership is evident when the auditor-general finds that 70% of all audited municipalities had incompetent officials and most used outside consultants to balance their books, despite municipal employees being paid to do the job.

No serious citizen would suspend criticism in the light of flagrant abdication of leadership on the part of the president.

Why should incompetent people be employed in the first place?

Ordinary people who feel the impact of poor service delivery are voting with their feet.

The onus is on you, Mr President, to take action against officials who fail to deliver textbooks, andto walk the talk of purging corruption.

It would be foolhardy to deny the evidence of our senses and pretend that all is well when the ANC confronts an unprecedented crisis.

Because we care, Mr President, we will give you and your administration no quarter.