People have the right to remain anonymous

Madam – I refer to the mayor’s response to the letter from Concerned Ratepayer published in the Newcastle Advertiser on 6 December 2013 in which the mayor quoted “please have the courage of your convictions and sign your name at the end of your letter when you call me corrupt and then I’ll engage you maybe”.

Firstly I do not know if I am missing something but I could not find anything in the letter calling the mayor corrupt.

The mayor must remember that he enjoys the protection of personal bodyguards around the clock, who are paid for, not by him or his political party, but by the Newcastle consumers who diligently pay their municipal accounts.

On the other hand, those disclosing their real names to some of the letters could rightly fear victimisation or worse, and if that person feels threatened and the need for protection, the writer will have to pay for such protection themselves, and who can afford this?

This, in a nutshell is the reason why many people choose not to divulge their own names and the mayor must realise and accept this.

ANONYMOUS

Response from Mayor, Afzul Rehman:

If the person has valid proof of corruption, they can go to the SAPS or call the anti-corruption hotline. If you fear for your life, don’t write allegations in newspapers.