Don Mattera's comments on Julius Malema are welcome. They are comments made by a mature human being not driven by political ambitions.

Don Mattera's comments on Julius Malema are welcome. They are comments made by a mature human being not driven by political ambitions.

We need people of similar conviction and courage who see Malema as a capable young leader destined for greater heights if guided properly.

Mattera is correct to say that we cannot afford to condemn Malema outright without understanding the circumstances that forces him to make "controversial" statements.

While we disagree with him sometimes, we must defend his right to speak as he is entitled to his own personal opinion.

The ANC has indicated several times that Malema's views are not necessarily the views of the ANC but that has fallen on deaf ears.

Mattera is also correct to infer that forming new political parties simply because you fear Malema in the ANC is mischievous.

Let us appreciate the fact that we have young members in the ANC who are able to articulate their views without fear or favour.

And let us hope that if and when Jacob Zuma becomes president and behaves in a manner not consistent with the traditions of the ANC, people like Malema will continue to ensure the ANC ship navigates towards the right direction.

Lazarus Nsiki, Letsitele