As you may be aware I am not the letter writing type. So I am expecting you to be surprised reading a letter from me. This is to tell you that you aren’t the only ones with something to write about. I can also write, and I know am very good at it. There’s so much for my executive self to say. I am going to use this column every week to speak my mind. A bird whispered in my ears that I must communicate regularly with my people. I do apologize for failing to deliver regular radio and TV addresses as my friend and colleague, the Bushman, does, addressing his people every week on radio and TV.

Regularly communicating with you is something I really thought about long before I was chosen to lead you into HIPC and out. But circumstances beyond my control have prevented me from doing what I know is right. My travels to many far off places – it’s my hobby, clearly stated in my CV – have occupied me greatly and I am really enjoying myself flying first class in British Airways. That’s one reason why I have not been communicating with you. I brought Lizoh down to help write my speeches and help me deliver them. But she failed miserably, preferring rather to quarrel with journalists.