Ghosn must not be a victim of trial by popular opinion

Our readers have their say on Nissan, Dolce&Gabbana and a kindly act

FILE PHOTO: Carlos Ghosn, chairman and CEO of the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance, attends the Tomorrow In Motion event on the eve of press day at the Paris Auto Show, in Paris, France, October 1, 2018. Picture taken October 1, 2018. REUTERS/Regis Duvignau/File Photo
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In reference to your news item Who is Carlos Ghosn? (November 19), I believe that the jury is still out on Mr Ghosn's future, since he has yet to speak. He has not had the chance to defend his reputation in any way, despite the many pages of print and online space that have been dedicated to this case.

While speculating as to what one of the top executives in the world may or may not have done over the past however many decades, we should not sweep away his many ­contributions to the world of business.

He ran two of the world’s largest companies – Nissan and Renault – and forged them into a wonderful alliance. This required great management skills. He also turned around Nissan which had annual losses of $6 billion and a debt of $20bn at that time, into profit within two years.

That is not an easy thing to accomplish and warrants a certain amount of respect.

The key charge against Mr Ghosn is that he did not declare the $71 million in various current and post-retirement benefits.

The charge should be reviewed thoroughly and Mr Ghosn should have the opportunity to clarify and explain any unauthorised payments. His fate should not become a trial by the media or jealous colleagues.

Rajendra Aneja, Dubai

The high-fashion advert that left a sour taste for many

I write with reference to your excellent editorial piece ­Globalisation is never an ­invitation to mock other cultures (November 23). This article was well-written and both meaningful and thought-provoking.

In the globalised world of branded items, fashion houses such as Dolce & Gabbana wield great influence over consumers around the world.

Culture and tradition are vitally important to people’s identities and it is possible to participate and enjoy the cultures of others within certain boundaries.

However, you do have to remember where you are, and negatively portraying ­another nationality or their eating habits in your advertisements is far from palatable. I am glad they apologised and removed the advert.

K Ragavan, Bengaluru

A heartfelt and human gesture at a time of grief

I write with reference to your article Dubai Ruler pays medical expenses of Russian mother who died suddenly (November 24). Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid has covered the medical expenses for a family who lost their mother due to sudden cardiac arrest. He is a good leader. I wish we had similar ones in Europe.

Name and address withheld by request

Such a kind gesture. Respect!

Malinda Smalberger, Pretoria, South Africa