What can we learn from DKB?

What can we learn from Dianne Kohler Barnard? Supporting PW Botha, whether intentionally or inadvertently, is always going to cause a storm. Everybody makes mistakes and does stupid things at least once.

Also, every action has a consequence. Some more severe than others. No doubt Kohler Barnard (DKB) will soon find out the hefty price that one share on facebook comes with. 

But I’m not here to judge her one way or the other. I’m politically neutral and I’m coloured, so you could say I’m completely unbiased. What I’d like to highlight is how DKB reacted after she saw the outrage.

It takes a great person to admit when they’re wrong. Especially in public. People tend to judge harshly and fiercely criticize when they enjoy the luxury of anonymity. DKB put her hands up, apologized and admitted her moment of stupidity. Let’s think about that for a moment. I would never admit to being stupid.

Apologise, maybe, but to go further than that? How many people can truly say they would do that or have done that – admitted they were stupid? She owned it, nobody can say anything worse about her without being vindictive.

She may be a tool, she may lose her job. But I honestly believe every politician and government official can learn a great lesson from her. When you’re wrong, admit your mistake and face the consequences. I think South Africa will be a greater place if all of them did the same.