The mainstream media on Monday reported that the deputy defense minster claimed that 28 of the much talked about Nuri helicopters were still safe.

But in his clarification, he went on to state that their utilisation is restricted to day time flying. And if that is not shocking, he further added that these helicopters will only be flown in good weather.

Wait a minute Mr Minister. If the machines are safe, why the restricted flying conditions?

Now, what are we as faithful citizens supposed to make out of this shocking statement coming from none other than a deputy minister?

Please Mr Deputy Minister, do we laugh, cry, ignore or praise you?

How on earth do we explain to the kids in school that if a Nuri helicopter is safe we should only fly it in good weather and never risk flying it at night? Well, wasn’t that what the minister meant?

If, as you claimed, the machines are safe, why did you go to such great lengths to clarify that they can only be flown in daylight and in fine weather?

Such clouded and muddled statements from the who’s who within the corridors of power destroys the credibility of the nation's leadership.

Can you imagine how others around the globe view us when such answers are dished out within the hallways of governance? Are we not embarrassed?

Please ladies and gentlemen of the echelons of power, think before you speak. The nation is watching. The world is laughing.

Indeed, times are getting increasingly baffling with arguments, clarifications and statements such as these becoming almost a daily indication of a ridiculous state of affairs.