[Community-Discuss] Accountability assessment - quorum

[Andrew Alston]

Jackson,

Again, let me clarify my use of wording:

Firstly - do I believe that it is irresponsible when I believe that someone is advocating for ignoring the law.  Yes - I do, and my opinions my offend some, but I will not be limited in what I say because it may tread on toes if I believe what I am saying is the truth.   

Secondly - when I use the word naïve, let's look at the definition of such:

(of a person or action) showing a lack of experience, wisdom, or judgment.

Do I believe that it is unwise to advocate for ignoring the act?  Yes I do.

If my stating that I believe these things offends someone - then I apologise for offense caused.  I do not however apologise for stating them.

It is a fine line we tread - where often the truth of a matter is disputed, and in taking any position, you are quite likely to offend someone who disagrees with your position, particularly when the position you are taking is taken in an unequivocal manner.  In this case, I was unequivocal, it is my sincere and utmost believe that ignoring any text is unwise, reckless, irresponsible and shows a lack of judgement.

Again, as I stated in what I said to Mirriam, the section to which I was referring to was one specific line:

> One would expect the debate to stay at the community level and not involve the Act. The community to discuss and agree on how to manage this issue.

So - if I offended people through the choice of words - apologies.  For the sentiment behind those words - those I stand by in entirety.

Andrew


-----Original Message-----
From: Jackson Muthili [mailto:jacksonmuthi at gmail.com] 
Sent: 03 October 2016 13:10
To: Andrew Alston <Andrew.Alston at liquidtelecom.com>
Cc: ALAIN AINA <aalain at trstech.net>; General Discussions of AFRINIC <community-discuss at afrinic.net>
Subject: Re: [Community-Discuss] Accountability assessment - quorum

On Mon, Oct 3, 2016 at 2:49 AM, Andrew Alston <Andrew.Alston at liquidtelecom.com> wrote:
> Writing in my personal capacity.
>
> Firstly, let me point out that anything I write on this list – unless 
> explicitly stated – is written in my personal capacity and not as a 
> director.

Why are you disrespectful of others in your personal capacity?

> What I write here is not necessarily representative of the wider board 
> views and should the board be taking a position on something it will 
> be communicated as such via the chairperson or someone delegated that 
> responsibility by the board.  So please, let us not mis-interpret my 
> words as the words of the board.

You said wrote to Alain " Quite frankly – I think what you have said here is, at best, extremely naive and at worst incredibly irresponsible."

You use this kind of language most of the time and this is not good.
It is intimidating to new people trying to join discussion and air their opinion and is clear expression of an autocratic mind. Why cant you tolerate and maturely engage in a respectful way?

Alain say he respects AfriNIC directors and you are one of them. It has nothing to do with your personal views. You are still a Director of AfriNIC and an important person in your other capacities. Please please just be mindful of peoples feelings and use euphemisms that can deliver the same message in a respectful way.