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You describe Claire Bonello as “one of the freshest and more direct writers on the block” (18 June 2006).
Dr Bonello is a lawyer by profession and writer in the print media. Both cases call for accuracy, which rules out any assumptions not based on facts, and a careful choice of words. Style and ethics in writing are also essential elements for a writer to boast integrity and credibility.
It must be admitted that Dr Bonello failed on all counts in her enthusiasm to attack George Pullicino, a government minister, by comparing him to the late Lorry Sant, whose notorious decisions in the past raise more than just an eyebrow.
Even just for the sake of the office he holds, representing us citizens, Mr Pullicino should be addressed with respect even when criticised. Dr Bonello’s right of opinion and her freedom to express it should not equal bad taste and comparing likes with dislikes.
The fact that Dr Bonello was given a dress down for her despicable way of making a point from all quarters – from the prime minister to representatives of NGOs – should tell her something. If anything that she has no poetic licence to be fully with no holds barred and not paying a consequence.
The very newspaper columns that made her popular may very well make her equally unpopular.
Charles Lia
Senglea
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