Zola Budd

Press, 25 February 1988, Page 12

Zola Budd

Sir, —Except for obeying the laws of the land and not encroaching on the rights of others,

we Kiwis enjoy freedom to think and act according to our own judgment. In these columns, which provide a valuable outlet for exchange of opinions, Hart activists exercise their right to present arguments against apartheid but, like the rest of us, have no right to use physical force or violence to achieve their aims. A courageous young runner, Zola Budd, twice world champion, has every right to compete here as a chosen British representative and we are entitled to see her run, untroubled by Hart which pretends to be fighting apartheid by attacking fellow citizens. Surely the battle must be in South Africa. Incidentally, intensive reading, History 111 study and conversing with helpful nationalists should produce a more humble outlook rather than a determination to keep correcting people with differing opinions.— Yours, etc., TED MULCOCK. February 22, 1988.

Sir, —I may have been misinformed, but I was always under the impression that Mr Precious McKenzie was also of South African origin. — Yours, etc., R. BRETT. February 22, 1988. Sir,—My reply to John Leslie (February 20) is that many people only “think” they know. I have learnt more about my native England since I arrived here. In the past I have given minor information about myself but, as far as I know, I would still be required (even after so many years) to have manuscript of my life story "vetted.” John Leslie does not “know” simply because he was born here. His attitude of only being concerned when his own lifestyle is intruded upon is similar to that of many white South Africans before they received a jolt about the suffering of blacks. — Yours, etc. KENNETH EBER MARTIN. February 23, 1988. Sir,—Surely people can not have enough to do if they can have time to waste organising a campaign to stop Zola Budd from competing here. Apart from a grave discourtesy to a guest in our country, their efforts are not going to help one African. Why not praise Zola Budd for her effort in becoming a world champion runner. — Yours, etc., M. WRIGHT. February 23, 1988.

Sir,—Spending most of her time in South Africa, Zola Budd would not be able to compete here, but, having gained a British passport, our Immigration Department, well practised in discrimination, will offer no barriers. Sympathy for the lady, in which I share, must not let us disguise the fact that her visit is probably backed by financial and political pressures. By competing here, Zola Budd targets New to weaken our resolve

over rugby tours, in particular. Those who would cloud the issue by reciting the political naughtiness of other States, should remember that only South Africa denies both the vote, and, by the apartheid laws, the right to choose where to live. Zola Budd is a victim, coming to New Zealand because the Springboks cannot play rugby here or have an official team visit them until vicious tyranny and military aggression ceases in southern Africa. — Yours, etc., VARIAN J. WILSON. February 23, 1988.