7 November 2005
Democrats for Social Credit: Passing of Rod Donald
The Democrats for Social Credit are deeply saddened by the passing of Rod Donald, a young man who has contributed so
much, and whose energy and passion seemed certain to deliver so much more for his Party and the Country.
It is a shocking blow indeed, and one that has seen a wave of disbelief wash across the country.
The words that have tumbled out, in public and private, all contain the same themes. A principled person with the
discipline and the courage to act in wholehearted support of those principles. A man of ideas and integrity,
compassionate and caring. Someone who played the man and not the ball in politics.
And in our association with him, we too found that so. Particularly through the more exciting and hopeful days of the
Alliance, and of course in the hugely successful campaign for MMP.
In all he did, it seems to me, there was an intended rightness. A sure touch and a view of the woods and the trees.
Above all a person who never played the success/failure game.
He argued fearlessly with passion and energy for what could be gained today, settled without apparent rancour, and
prepared for the fight again tomorrow. Knowing the task, and unswerving in its pursuit.
By and large that is the contribution of the artist rather than the politician, and in Rod there was some of each. His
achievements as a politician are on the record and will be a part of his legacy. The Democrats extend to you and the
Green Party our deepest commiserations on the loss of so gifted a colleague.
ENDS