The role of writers is to use their pens constructively and not destructively. If wisely used, the media can serve as a powerful agent of reform by shedding light on shortcomings and mistakes. What we see from time to time, however, is not constructive criticism but an unjustified attack that fails to reflect the true spirit of journalism.

Take for example the case of Jeddah’s mayor. Over the last few months, he has been subjected to unjustified attacks in the press. The harsh criticism has generated a number of misconceptions and false impressions and the end result has been a negative social atmosphere in the city.

Criticizing the mayor has become something which everyone, qualified and unqualified, has rushed to do.

What I have noticed is the way the mayor has responded to the harsh criticism. He wrote to one paper saying there was no personal enmity between him and the writer who had bitterly attacked him. The mayor responded to the criticism in a way that reflected his strong self-confidence and a determination to rise above trivialities.

I am confident that our leaders would never tolerate shortcomings from an official holding a public position. Examples abound of cases that have been properly dealt with.

Public positions, whether high or low, are not the monopoly of one person nor are they awarded for social prestige. Public officials are chosen because they are trustworthy and it is their duty to prove that they deserve, and are worthy of, that trust.

As for the mayor, give the man a chance to prove himself. He is in a difficult position — not of his own making. Other mayors preceded him, some for long periods and others for short ones. The mayor should be credited with introducing an unprecedented system of administration based on motivation. Each member of the leadership team is required to enforce specific programs which motivate and ultimately lead to increased production.

Another item to the mayor’s credit is the open discussions and forums he holds where ideas are exchanged and lessons learned. He has succeeded in burying the old system of administration in which managers were only concerned with the day-to-day running of affairs, without any clear plan or vision.

Arab News From the Local Press 30 November 2002