Ambitious? Incautious more like!

Key’s had to dump the DVD Ambitious For NZ to avoid legal action around the controversial soundtrack. This is a major error and although it is being blamed on the production company, Key will have to take full responsibility (and presumably the creative will have documentary approval from the client should it be needed). To avoid taking responsibility will only exacerbate the matter. And while Farrar is already spinning that it was someone else’s fault, Key will surely know that as the front man, as the Leader, he must take responsibility. He was, afterall, the product on display.

Key is in danger of inheriting his predecessor’s Mr McGoo moniker. Having done well to broker a compromise over anti-smacking legislation, he’s stumbled all too often and must now be only an error or two away from a Caucus revolt. He increasingly appears simply too inexperienced to be effective. On occasions, he can look and sound credible, but there’s a shallowness that is all to easily exposed and an a tendency to say or do things without having thought them through thoroughly.

I applaud ambitious leadership but leadership is not just about glib one-liners. It’s not just about glossy imaging and carefully crafted set-piece speeches. It is also about judgment and attention to detail. It is hard work and often unglamorous. It requires experience and dedication as well as enthusiasm.

I believe John Key is ambitious for NZ. Every MP holds high aspirations for our country, however not all have the skills, commitment and experience to achieve those goals. Compared with Rudd, Key’s yet to paint himself as a real alternative to an experienced government and now goes to the Christmas break not only looking a little foolish but without any momentum for the new election year.

Tags: key, national