Simple, good advice for MPs

Overseas visitors often comment on the warmth of South Africans, both black and white. The spirit of ubuntu uplifts this great land.

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 and shared the Nobel Peace Prize.

Yet parliament has degenerated into a hateful place and members have lost much of Mandela's grace. Our leaders in most quarters 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 as well as criticising.

For criticisms to be effective they should have meat.

To just complain about everything will diminish criticism that 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.