? The minister of Education informs us that the criterion for the selection of school text books is ?to ensure a fair distribution among authors?. This must be the most unconvincing reason ever given to justify a decision. Mind, it takes all sorts to make a world.

? The choice of the PNQ for the new opposition leader was a gentle crossing of swords with the PM. We were led to believe that he was going to come out all guns blazing. In the end, he was only firing blanks.

? The brand new president of the Labour party informs us that she wants to ensure an efficient channel of communication. Does that mean that the ubiquitous director of communication has failed to get the message across?

? The PM is not happy with the Multi Annual Adaptation Strategy (MAAS) and wants to renegotiate certain clauses, fair enough. What about the president of a parastatal body who is suddenly following suit? Why did he not voice his objections before in his capacity as president? Is that what is called jumping on the bandwagon or listening to his master?s voice.

? The PM informs us that he does trust his ministers. Should we trust them to deliver the goods and I do not mean milk or iron bars?

? One minister wants to eradicate poverty; another one wants to make all of us rich. I suppose that it would take longer than the standard 100 days. Is that what is called living in cloud cuckoo land or trying to fool all the people all of the time?

? For once I agree with the MSM when it says that there will be no place for ?roder bout?. Too many times, turncoats have managed to win favours after a general election. Time they were kicked in touch for ever more.

? It is all happening in the different municipalities, alleged bribing scandals, culture of ?manzé, boire?. Now, the municipality of Port Louis has decided to set up a system of allocating colours and zones to hawkers. Can anyone better a bird-brain scheme like this?

C.C.C.</B>