Who was the guy who turned up yesterday to answer questions put by members of parliament? Was it the president elected to govern this country or a court jester? We ask this question because the level of debate in parliament continues to deteriorate and the exchanges in the National Assembly have become little more than entertainment for those who seek relief from the daily grind.It cannot be that, when faced by serious challenges related to education, drought and the economy, our elected leaders can find comic relief while the rest of us have to grit our teeth.President Jacob Zuma might argue that he has every right to laugh, but yesterday was neither the right time nor the right place.The question-and-answer debate in parliament should have merited the full and serious attention of the citizenry, but instead we were amazed and disturbed by the continuous laughter of our president.Where do we draw the line, Mr President?When is it the right time to listen to you attentively and when should we just join you in a good laugh?We believe that, as head of state and custodian of our constitution, you should treat the people with respect.It is worrying that, when there are serious issues on the table that need your sober consideration, all the country gets is laughter - and more laughter.We demand your full attention on the many problems that face this nation.We expect you to speak with authority and conviction.People watching the debate at home were eager to hear answers to the issues that trouble them, but instead were forced to sit through a comedy show."I don't know how to stop my laughter. Is it hurting?" you said.Yes, it is hurting, and it should not be part of your script, especially when you are supposed to be dealing seriously with matters of national importance...