Democratic leadership 101: Back to Athens and down to Botswana

Many years ago I was taught that democracy was born in the Greek City State of 'Athens' which was ruled by leaders who were elected regularly by the people. Athens was contrasted to the other famous Greek City State of Sparta whose governance was exercised by Kings possessing divine right until death.

Sparta's governance philosophy was centred on obedience and war. Whilst in Athens individuals enjoyed making choices and were provided with opportunities for education and for creativity, in Sparta all boys were forced into the military duty and girls were moulded to be mothers of warriors.

Editor's Comment
Mob justice isn't just

A young man suspected of breaking into a car was seized by residents, severely assaulted, and died in the hospital within an hour. We unreservedly condemn this mob justice. It is not a solution to crime, but a criminal offence that turns citizens into murderers.Residents are understandably angry about theft. The person who raised the alarm at 4am acted lawfully, and the neighbours who rushed to help showed community spirit. But what followed was...

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