Mike King’s recent comments on alcohol use are being strongly rebuked by experts for trivialising a serious public health issue. Just like King Joffrey Baratheon from Game of Thrones, all of a sudden he’s found that he holds immense power and wealth. But for now, it seems, without the capability or wisdom to wield it effectively.
Do either have advisors? Yes. But are they listening to them and taking the advice and guidance of their experts? It doesn’t look like it to me.
Both make impulsive, harmful statements that reflect immaturity and lack of understanding and insight. They inflame the relationships around them and make enemies of friends. Like young Joffrey, King’s struggles are only starting. I think all of us in PR Land are keen to see the how this episode’s ending shakes out.
Public figures with authority and control of taxpayer dollars must remember who they ultimately serve. Hint, it’s the people. King must exercise caution because he has accepted the burden that accompanies power and money whether he recognises it or not. Should he break the people’s trust, well, I refer you to Game of Thrones season 4, episode 2, “The Lion and the Rose.”
