Indeed, not since Three Mile Island has the American nuclear industry suffered a greater setback to its image and credibility than that delivered by Spokesman Boucher.

CENTERFORSECURITYPOLICY: Center for Security Policy | CIENFUEGOS �� ��A HUNDRED FIRES��: MUCHAS GRACIAS MOSCOW, BUT NO AMERICAN CHERNOBYLS

It is odd that after a presidential campaign that used simple symbols and imagery so well, I can't recall one image of the president since his inauguration, save the pathetic picture painted by White House spokesman Gibbs of his clenched jaw in response to the BP accident.

FORBES: Leadership

"Negative public communication, aimed at accessing resources or any other purpose, does not help the image of the country nor does it in any case reflect the true state of affairs, " a spokesman for President Thabo Mbeki's cabinet said in response to Zille's statement.

BBC: Scenic view of one of Cape Town's stadiums

"It shows the prime minister is interested in substance, not image, and that what he wants to do is continue to focus on the issues, " his official spokesman said.

BBC: NEWS | UK | UK Politics | Blair hits back over 'baby Asbos'