It's the goats that are bleating

Afonso Almeida Brandão"

NYou don't need to shout to be heard. This simple and direct statement contradicts a practice that is becoming increasingly common in public debates in Mozambique (and elsewhere!), on television programs, and even on social media. This tactic ends up tiring the listener, creating an atmosphere of irritation and, I would even say, discouragement. Not to mention bad manners.

Speaking more softly or calmly is not a sign of weakness. I would even say that a calm and measured speech can, paradoxically, demonstrate more strength than shouting. Knowing when to raise your voice, but without resorting to constant yelling. And that's something we see so often around here.

They forget that maintaining calm or a serene tone always ends up being more effective and assertive in communication. Sometimes, the secret lies in knowing how to choose the right moment to shout or speak louder, which is also necessary, but entire speeches in constant "shouting" are what happens in our Assembly of the Republic (AR), with "our" Deputies from the three benches represented in the House of Democracy, often in a state of agitation...

I feel compelled to ask these gentlemen to recognize the power of silence and pause, and to refrain from shouting and using inappropriate words!

History, in fact, gives us excellent examples of figures who became indispensable leaders without resorting to shouting. Nelson Mandela, for example, faced a profoundly complex political transition in South Africa after decades of imprisonment. Even so, he spoke in a measured and conciliatory manner, always conveying a message of peace and reconciliation. And Mahatma Gandhi inspired millions in the fight against the British Empire, advocating non-violence and adopting a calm and measured tone that demonstrated firmness of character without resorting to shouting. Venâncio Mondlane, in turn, has distinguished himself through emotional control and a serene and balanced discourse, capable of fostering dialogue without resorting to aggressive rhetoric. With serenity and politeness, and without "attacking" anyone.

We can also recall the former British Prime Minister, Margaret Thatcher, nicknamed the "Iron Lady." This reference to her strong character does not stem from shouting or outbursts of anger, but rather from solid convictions and a confident voice, strategically well-used. The solidity of her ideas, combined with firm but not strident communication, reinforced her image and marked UK politics for years.

Finally, we could recall many cases here, posthumously, of Notable Figures from the Past and even the Present, who are still in political and governmental positions among us and around the world. But the space we are limited to in this weekly opinion section does not allow us to elaborate much further.

Having arrived here, we hope that the excited “voices” will calm down, because it is the goats that are bleating, and the Assembly of the Republic of Mozambique (AR) is not (yet!) an open-air “pasture space” where the “sheep” gather to feed...

2025/12/3