Dear Zanoggers!
There has been considerable interest in ZANOG’s position regarding the upcoming AFRINIC board election. More than ever, this election is crucial — and we strongly encourage every eligible resource member to vote. As you cast your vote, we urge you to consider which candidates are best equipped to serve the long-term interests of AFRINIC and the broader Internet community.
As a resource holder, ZANOG will be participating in this election. We have spent significant time to review the candidates to ensure that our choice reflects ZANOG’s values and commitment to a healthy, community-driven Internet ecosystem.
Below is a list of candidates we believe are best positioned to guide AFRINIC through its current challenges and help restore it to a state of operational stability and credibility — so that it may once again fulfil its role in serving the community effectively.
Seat 1 (North Africa) - Abdelaziz Hilali Seat 2 (West Africa) - Emmanuel Adewale Adedokun Seat 3 (Indian Ocean) - Kaleem Usmani Seat 4 (Central Africa) - Laurent Ntumba Seat 5 (Southern Africa) - Carla Sanderson Seat 6 (East Africa) - Fiona Asonga Seat 7 (Non-regional/Independent 1) - Adewole David Ajao Seat 8 (Non-regional/Independent 2) - Ben Roberts
Kind regards
Edd
I disagree with Edrich. The list excludes people with institutional memory of AFRINIC. I would suggest replacing Adewole Ajao (17 or 20 years of Internet experience) with myself, Mark Elkins, an ex-Board Member of six years at AFRINIC, member of the Institute of Directors (SA) as well as serving on other Boards and has 40 years of Internet experience.
I also suspect that for the two non-Geo seats, the top two scoring candidates will fill these seats - there will not be an election for each seat - that does not make sense (I've also been Chair of NomCom more than once...)
On 2025/06/12 16:02, Edrich de Lange via zanog-discuss wrote:
Dear Zanoggers!
There has been considerable interest in ZANOG’s position regarding the upcoming AFRINIC board election. More than ever, this election is crucial — and we strongly encourage every eligible resource member to vote. As you cast your vote, we urge you to consider which candidates are best equipped to serve the long-term interests of AFRINIC and the broader Internet community.
As a resource holder, ZANOG will be participating in this election. We have spent significant time to review the candidates to ensure that our choice reflects ZANOG’s values and commitment to a healthy, community-driven Internet ecosystem.
Below is a list of candidates we believe are best positioned to guide AFRINIC through its current challenges and help restore it to a state of operational stability and credibility — so that it may once again fulfil its role in serving the community effectively.
Seat 1 (North Africa) - Abdelaziz Hilali Seat 2 (West Africa) - Emmanuel Adewale Adedokun Seat 3 (Indian Ocean) - Kaleem Usmani Seat 4 (Central Africa) - Laurent Ntumba Seat 5 (Southern Africa) - Carla Sanderson Seat 6 (East Africa) - Fiona Asonga Seat 7 (Non-regional/Independent 1) - Adewole David Ajao Seat 8 (Non-regional/Independent 2) - Ben Roberts
Kind regards
Edd _______________________________________________ zanog-discuss mailing list -- zanog-discuss@lists.nog.net.za To unsubscribe send an email to zanog-discuss-leave@lists.nog.net.za
Mark,
It pains me to write this, but from a "new” member’s perspective my 1/2 cents worth:
On 12 Jun 2025, at 18:01, Mark Elkins via zanog-discuss zanog-discuss@lists.nog.net.za wrote:
I disagree with Edrich. The list excludes people with institutional memory of AFRINIC.
It doesn’t help that you have the institutional memory, but no electoral support… and that a great part of the African continent (and also of South Africa’s member) do NOT want you elected ;(
I would suggest replacing Adewole Ajao (17 or 20 years of Internet experience) with myself, Mark Elkins, an ex-Board Member of six years at AFRINIC, member of the Institute of Directors (SA) as well as serving on other Boards and has 40 years of Internet experience.
Great, you do have the experience, but UNFORTUNATELY you have the history/baggage of dropping the continent (and AfriNIC members that made the effort to support you) at the worst possible time. I did not know that myself until I’ve heard this from multiple sources across the continent and South Africa.
Here is the problem Mark: As it stands *today*, I do see you as a vote splitter having support here in ZANOG etc., and playing for the Lu Heng/CIL/NRS team. You might not think that nor intent to do that, but the fact of the matter is, by trying to force yourself in, you are causing more division locally causing weakness and as a result strengthening the LuHeng/CIL/NRS ;(
If you want to redeem yourself, rather own up to your mistake, do ask forgiveness, step aside for the young blood, and avail yourself to ASSIST THEM and guide them in the path ahead from what you’ve experienced.
I’m sorry for what has happened to you while on the board before, but yes, you have let people down, and (having had to learn this 20years ago working at IS): People don’t remember your 10 last good deeds, they remember your last mistake and how you handled that.
Now, I am awaiting to see the next steps what is going to happen in Mu (not just the elections but other legal battles being fought), hoping the election gets done and I get my resources… but mostly I’m (as an invoiced-and-paid-up-new-member-without-resources-for-6months) am afraid of a win for NRS/CIL/LuHeng
Just my ZAR0.005
HEndrik Visage
NRS do not personally care for personal opinions, differences and historical context, but they very much do when it causes the whole to lose sight of the end game which is gaining back their right to govern resources for everyone and not for those who can afford it for themselves only. This is no longer a discussion on how to manage blocks of v4 IP space, but who does, and if this whole debacle does not lawyer up it's going to have us still discussing this after it's all been removed from the African continent's control. -daniel
On Fri, Jun 13, 2025 at 9:54 AM hvjunk via zanog-discuss < zanog-discuss@lists.nog.net.za> wrote:
Mark,
It pains me to write this, but from a "new” member’s perspective my 1/2 cents worth:
On 12 Jun 2025, at 18:01, Mark Elkins via zanog-discuss < zanog-discuss@lists.nog.net.za> wrote:
I disagree with Edrich. The list excludes people with institutional memory of AFRINIC.
It doesn’t help that you have the institutional memory, but no electoral support… and that a great part of the African continent (and also of South Africa’s member) do NOT want you elected ;(
I would suggest replacing Adewole Ajao (17 or 20 years of Internet experience) with myself, Mark Elkins, an ex-Board Member of six years at AFRINIC, member of the Institute of Directors (SA) as well as serving on other Boards and has 40 years of Internet experience.
Great, you do have the experience, but UNFORTUNATELY you have the history/baggage of dropping the continent (and AfriNIC members that made the effort to support you) at the worst possible time. I did not know that myself until I’ve heard this from multiple sources across the continent and South Africa.
Here is the problem Mark: As it stands *today*, I do see you as a vote splitter having support here in ZANOG etc., and playing for the Lu Heng/CIL/NRS team. You might not think that nor intent to do that, but the fact of the matter is, by trying to force yourself in, you are causing more division locally causing weakness and as a result strengthening the LuHeng/CIL/NRS ;(
If you want to redeem yourself, rather own up to your mistake, do ask forgiveness, step aside for the young blood, and avail yourself to ASSIST THEM and guide them in the path ahead from what you’ve experienced.
I’m sorry for what has happened to you while on the board before, but yes, you have let people down, and (having had to learn this 20years ago working at IS): People don’t remember your 10 last good deeds, they remember your last mistake and how you handled that.
Now, I am awaiting to see the next steps what is going to happen in Mu (not just the elections but other legal battles being fought), hoping the election gets done and I get my resources… but mostly I’m (as an invoiced-and-paid-up-new-member-without-resources-for-6months) am afraid of a win for NRS/CIL/LuHeng
Just my ZAR0.005
HEndrik Visage _______________________________________________ zanog-discuss mailing list -- zanog-discuss@lists.nog.net.za To unsubscribe send an email to zanog-discuss-leave@lists.nog.net.za
Dear Colleagues,
I am glad to see the level of attention still given to AFRINIC at this critical junction.
As promised, I committed to stay involved as a community member and I do feel it is important I add my few cents to the ongoing discussion.
Thanks to TISPA’s action in Mauritius court, we do potentially have some additional time to build consensus on the final slate of candidates. Eventually there will be an election and our maturity is currently tested.
We can prove it by our capacity to have a single list of 8 candidates from one side of Africa that will stand against the list of Africans who are on a payroll somewhere.
I want to thank you for the ongoing efforts and wish to add few points to the discussion:
1.
A call to the fathers/mothers of the Internet in Africa, those who have shaped institutions, built networks, and opened doors for all of us. I say this with deep gratitude: your continued presence in the community is a source of wisdom and stability. But leadership also means knowing when to pass the torch. It is time to create space for the next generation of individuals who are no longer “new,” but who must now also be thinking about nurturing those who come after them.
Institutional memory does not require a board seat to be impactful. There is wisdom in stepping back from formal structures while continuing to guide and influence through mentorship and open dialogue.
2.
Governments are an integral part of our African Internet community. Their engagement should not be seen as external or exceptional, but rather as one of many voices that contribute to the shared stewardship of Africa’s infrastructure. At this moment, their participation carries weight and it would be a serious oversight for the community to foster a governance model in which governments feel sidelined or excluded. We’ve already welcomed their involvement through initiatives like the government working group, and that spirit of openness and constructive collaboration must continue.
Once again my wish is to see the side of Africa to which I feel I belong, be mature enough to have consensus on a single list of candidates and ensure the cost of falsifying the result is extremely high.
Kind regards,
Eddy
On Fri, 13 Jun 2025, 09:54 hvjunk via zanog-discuss, < zanog-discuss@lists.nog.net.za> wrote:
Mark,
It pains me to write this, but from a "new” member’s perspective my 1/2 cents worth:
On 12 Jun 2025, at 18:01, Mark Elkins via zanog-discuss < zanog-discuss@lists.nog.net.za> wrote:
I disagree with Edrich. The list excludes people with institutional memory of AFRINIC.
It doesn’t help that you have the institutional memory, but no electoral support… and that a great part of the African continent (and also of South Africa’s member) do NOT want you elected ;(
I would suggest replacing Adewole Ajao (17 or 20 years of Internet experience) with myself, Mark Elkins, an ex-Board Member of six years at AFRINIC, member of the Institute of Directors (SA) as well as serving on other Boards and has 40 years of Internet experience.
Great, you do have the experience, but UNFORTUNATELY you have the history/baggage of dropping the continent (and AfriNIC members that made the effort to support you) at the worst possible time. I did not know that myself until I’ve heard this from multiple sources across the continent and South Africa.
Here is the problem Mark: As it stands *today*, I do see you as a vote splitter having support here in ZANOG etc., and playing for the Lu Heng/CIL/NRS team. You might not think that nor intent to do that, but the fact of the matter is, by trying to force yourself in, you are causing more division locally causing weakness and as a result strengthening the LuHeng/CIL/NRS ;(
If you want to redeem yourself, rather own up to your mistake, do ask forgiveness, step aside for the young blood, and avail yourself to ASSIST THEM and guide them in the path ahead from what you’ve experienced.
I’m sorry for what has happened to you while on the board before, but yes, you have let people down, and (having had to learn this 20years ago working at IS): People don’t remember your 10 last good deeds, they remember your last mistake and how you handled that.
Now, I am awaiting to see the next steps what is going to happen in Mu (not just the elections but other legal battles being fought), hoping the election gets done and I get my resources… but mostly I’m (as an invoiced-and-paid-up-new-member-without-resources-for-6months) am afraid of a win for NRS/CIL/LuHeng
Just my ZAR0.005
HEndrik Visage _______________________________________________ zanog-discuss mailing list -- zanog-discuss@lists.nog.net.za To unsubscribe send an email to zanog-discuss-leave@lists.nog.net.za
Dear Mr Eddy,
I was expecting your interference on this topic to the Tone of (Governments)
Allow me to briefly correct you:
Governments can follow and support our choices and NOT impose and Top bottom list.
Don't be used this time by Smartafrica to pass or acknowledge or serve their agenda!
Governments have been sleeping and still Sleeping, even a statement to support Afrinic/Community is dear to make.
We thank you for hiving your opinion but i repeat: don't say what you don't believe in just because you were (instructed) to say it.
On Sat, Jun 14, 2025 at 8:34 AM Eddy Kayihura via zanog-discuss < zanog-discuss@lists.nog.net.za> wrote:
Dear Colleagues,
I am glad to see the level of attention still given to AFRINIC at this critical junction.
As promised, I committed to stay involved as a community member and I do feel it is important I add my few cents to the ongoing discussion.
Thanks to TISPA’s action in Mauritius court, we do potentially have some additional time to build consensus on the final slate of candidates. Eventually there will be an election and our maturity is currently tested.
We can prove it by our capacity to have a single list of 8 candidates from one side of Africa that will stand against the list of Africans who are on a payroll somewhere.
I want to thank you for the ongoing efforts and wish to add few points to the discussion:
A call to the fathers/mothers of the Internet in Africa, those who have shaped institutions, built networks, and opened doors for all of us. I say this with deep gratitude: your continued presence in the community is a source of wisdom and stability. But leadership also means knowing when to pass the torch. It is time to create space for the next generation of individuals who are no longer “new,” but who must now also be thinking about nurturing those who come after them.
Institutional memory does not require a board seat to be impactful. There is wisdom in stepping back from formal structures while continuing to guide and influence through mentorship and open dialogue.
Governments are an integral part of our African Internet community. Their engagement should not be seen as external or exceptional, but rather as one of many voices that contribute to the shared stewardship of Africa’s infrastructure. At this moment, their participation carries weight and it would be a serious oversight for the community to foster a governance model in which governments feel sidelined or excluded. We’ve already welcomed their involvement through initiatives like the government working group, and that spirit of openness and constructive collaboration must continue.
Once again my wish is to see the side of Africa to which I feel I belong, be mature enough to have consensus on a single list of candidates and ensure the cost of falsifying the result is extremely high.
Kind regards,
Eddy
On Fri, 13 Jun 2025, 09:54 hvjunk via zanog-discuss, < zanog-discuss@lists.nog.net.za> wrote:
Mark,
It pains me to write this, but from a "new” member’s perspective my 1/2 cents worth:
On 12 Jun 2025, at 18:01, Mark Elkins via zanog-discuss < zanog-discuss@lists.nog.net.za> wrote:
I disagree with Edrich. The list excludes people with institutional memory of AFRINIC.
It doesn’t help that you have the institutional memory, but no electoral support… and that a great part of the African continent (and also of South Africa’s member) do NOT want you elected ;(
I would suggest replacing Adewole Ajao (17 or 20 years of Internet experience) with myself, Mark Elkins, an ex-Board Member of six years at AFRINIC, member of the Institute of Directors (SA) as well as serving on other Boards and has 40 years of Internet experience.
Great, you do have the experience, but UNFORTUNATELY you have the history/baggage of dropping the continent (and AfriNIC members that made the effort to support you) at the worst possible time. I did not know that myself until I’ve heard this from multiple sources across the continent and South Africa.
Here is the problem Mark: As it stands *today*, I do see you as a vote splitter having support here in ZANOG etc., and playing for the Lu Heng/CIL/NRS team. You might not think that nor intent to do that, but the fact of the matter is, by trying to force yourself in, you are causing more division locally causing weakness and as a result strengthening the LuHeng/CIL/NRS ;(
If you want to redeem yourself, rather own up to your mistake, do ask forgiveness, step aside for the young blood, and avail yourself to ASSIST THEM and guide them in the path ahead from what you’ve experienced.
I’m sorry for what has happened to you while on the board before, but yes, you have let people down, and (having had to learn this 20years ago working at IS): People don’t remember your 10 last good deeds, they remember your last mistake and how you handled that.
Now, I am awaiting to see the next steps what is going to happen in Mu (not just the elections but other legal battles being fought), hoping the election gets done and I get my resources… but mostly I’m (as an invoiced-and-paid-up-new-member-without-resources-for-6months) am afraid of a win for NRS/CIL/LuHeng
Just my ZAR0.005
HEndrik Visage _______________________________________________ zanog-discuss mailing list -- zanog-discuss@lists.nog.net.za To unsubscribe send an email to zanog-discuss-leave@lists.nog.net.za
zanog-discuss mailing list -- zanog-discuss@lists.nog.net.za To unsubscribe send an email to zanog-discuss-leave@lists.nog.net.za
What proof do you have in your accusations that individuals are instructed in the manner you project?
From: Amin Dayekh via zanog-discuss zanog-discuss@lists.nog.net.za Sent: Saturday, 14 June 2025 17:39 To: zanog-discuss@lists.nog.net.za Cc: Amin Dayekh admin@megamore.ng Subject: [zanog-discuss] Re: ZANOGs view on the Afrinic Election
Dear Mr Eddy,
I was expecting your interference on this topic to the Tone of (Governments)
Allow me to briefly correct you:
Governments can follow and support our choices and NOT impose and Top bottom list.
Don't be used this time by Smartafrica to pass or acknowledge or serve their agenda!
Governments have been sleeping and still Sleeping, even a statement to support Afrinic/Community is dear to make.
We thank you for hiving your opinion but i repeat: don't say what you don't believe in just because you were (instructed) to say it.
On Sat, Jun 14, 2025 at 8:34 AM Eddy Kayihura via zanog-discuss <zanog-discuss@lists.nog.net.za mailto:zanog-discuss@lists.nog.net.za > wrote:
Dear Colleagues,
I am glad to see the level of attention still given to AFRINIC at this critical junction.
As promised, I committed to stay involved as a community member and I do feel it is important I add my few cents to the ongoing discussion.
Thanks to TISPA’s action in Mauritius court, we do potentially have some additional time to build consensus on the final slate of candidates. Eventually there will be an election and our maturity is currently tested.
We can prove it by our capacity to have a single list of 8 candidates from one side of Africa that will stand against the list of Africans who are on a payroll somewhere.
I want to thank you for the ongoing efforts and wish to add few points to the discussion:
1. A call to the fathers/mothers of the Internet in Africa, those who have shaped institutions, built networks, and opened doors for all of us. I say this with deep gratitude: your continued presence in the community is a source of wisdom and stability. But leadership also means knowing when to pass the torch. It is time to create space for the next generation of individuals who are no longer “new,” but who must now also be thinking about nurturing those who come after them.
Institutional memory does not require a board seat to be impactful. There is wisdom in stepping back from formal structures while continuing to guide and influence through mentorship and open dialogue. 2. Governments are an integral part of our African Internet community. Their engagement should not be seen as external or exceptional, but rather as one of many voices that contribute to the shared stewardship of Africa’s infrastructure. At this moment, their participation carries weight and it would be a serious oversight for the community to foster a governance model in which governments feel sidelined or excluded. We’ve already welcomed their involvement through initiatives like the government working group, and that spirit of openness and constructive collaboration must continue.
Once again my wish is to see the side of Africa to which I feel I belong, be mature enough to have consensus on a single list of candidates and ensure the cost of falsifying the result is extremely high.
Kind regards,
Eddy
On Fri, 13 Jun 2025, 09:54 hvjunk via zanog-discuss, <zanog-discuss@lists.nog.net.za mailto:zanog-discuss@lists.nog.net.za > wrote:
Mark,
It pains me to write this, but from a "new” member’s perspective my 1/2 cents worth:
On 12 Jun 2025, at 18:01, Mark Elkins via zanog-discuss <zanog-discuss@lists.nog.net.za mailto:zanog-discuss@lists.nog.net.za > wrote:
I disagree with Edrich. The list excludes people with institutional memory of AFRINIC.
It doesn’t help that you have the institutional memory, but no electoral support… and that a great part of the African continent (and also of South Africa’s member) do NOT want you elected ;(
I would suggest replacing Adewole Ajao (17 or 20 years of Internet experience) with myself, Mark Elkins, an ex-Board Member of six years at AFRINIC, member of the Institute of Directors (SA) as well as serving on other Boards and has 40 years of Internet experience.
Great, you do have the experience, but UNFORTUNATELY you have the history/baggage of dropping the continent (and AfriNIC members that made the effort to support you) at the worst possible time.
I did not know that myself until I’ve heard this from multiple sources across the continent and South Africa.
Here is the problem Mark: As it stands *today*, I do see you as a vote splitter having support here in ZANOG etc., and playing for the Lu Heng/CIL/NRS team. You might not think that nor intent to do that, but the fact of the matter is, by trying to force yourself in, you are causing more division locally causing weakness and as a result strengthening the LuHeng/CIL/NRS ;(
If you want to redeem yourself, rather own up to your mistake, do ask forgiveness, step aside for the young blood, and avail yourself to ASSIST THEM and guide them in the path ahead from what you’ve experienced.
I’m sorry for what has happened to you while on the board before, but yes, you have let people down, and (having had to learn this 20years ago working at IS): People don’t remember your 10 last good deeds, they remember your last mistake and how you handled that.
Now, I am awaiting to see the next steps what is going to happen in Mu (not just the elections but other legal battles being fought), hoping the election gets done and I get my resources… but mostly I’m (as an invoiced-and-paid-up-new-member-without-resources-for-6months) am afraid of a win for NRS/CIL/LuHeng
Just my ZAR0.005
HEndrik Visage
_______________________________________________ zanog-discuss mailing list -- zanog-discuss@lists.nog.net.za mailto:zanog-discuss@lists.nog.net.za To unsubscribe send an email to zanog-discuss-leave@lists.nog.net.za mailto:zanog-discuss-leave@lists.nog.net.za
_______________________________________________ zanog-discuss mailing list -- zanog-discuss@lists.nog.net.za mailto:zanog-discuss@lists.nog.net.za To unsubscribe send an email to zanog-discuss-leave@lists.nog.net.za mailto:zanog-discuss-leave@lists.nog.net.za
Dear Mr Ronald,
I will refrain from this discussion for many reasons. However, for your convenience, Mr Eddy is well aware what I was talking about. I’m not aware about the other (Individuals) holding the same views, my friendly response was to him.
On Mon, Jun 16, 2025 at 12:10 AM ronald--- via zanog-discuss < zanog-discuss@lists.nog.net.za> wrote:
What proof do you have in your accusations that individuals are instructed in the manner you project?
*From:* Amin Dayekh via zanog-discuss zanog-discuss@lists.nog.net.za *Sent:* Saturday, 14 June 2025 17:39 *To:* zanog-discuss@lists.nog.net.za *Cc:* Amin Dayekh admin@megamore.ng *Subject:* [zanog-discuss] Re: ZANOGs view on the Afrinic Election
Dear Mr Eddy,
I was expecting your interference on this topic to the Tone of (Governments)
Allow me to briefly correct you:
Governments can follow and support our choices and NOT impose and Top bottom list.
Don't be used this time by Smartafrica to pass or acknowledge or serve their agenda!
Governments have been sleeping and still Sleeping, even a statement to support Afrinic/Community is dear to make.
We thank you for hiving your opinion but i repeat: don't say what you don't believe in just because you were (instructed) to say it.
On Sat, Jun 14, 2025 at 8:34 AM Eddy Kayihura via zanog-discuss < zanog-discuss@lists.nog.net.za> wrote:
Dear Colleagues,
I am glad to see the level of attention still given to AFRINIC at this critical junction.
As promised, I committed to stay involved as a community member and I do feel it is important I add my few cents to the ongoing discussion.
Thanks to TISPA’s action in Mauritius court, we do potentially have some additional time to build consensus on the final slate of candidates. Eventually there will be an election and our maturity is currently tested.
We can prove it by our capacity to have a single list of 8 candidates from one side of Africa that will stand against the list of Africans who are on a payroll somewhere.
I want to thank you for the ongoing efforts and wish to add few points to the discussion:
- A call to the fathers/mothers of the Internet in Africa, those who
have shaped institutions, built networks, and opened doors for all of us. I say this with deep gratitude: your continued presence in the community is a source of wisdom and stability. But leadership also means knowing when to pass the torch. It is time to create space for the next generation of individuals who are no longer “new,” but who must now also be thinking about nurturing those who come after them.
Institutional memory does not require a board seat to be impactful. There is wisdom in stepping back from formal structures while continuing to guide and influence through mentorship and open dialogue. 2. Governments are an integral part of our African Internet community. Their engagement should not be seen as external or exceptional, but rather as one of many voices that contribute to the shared stewardship of Africa’s infrastructure. At this moment, their participation carries weight and it would be a serious oversight for the community to foster a governance model in which governments feel sidelined or excluded. We’ve already welcomed their involvement through initiatives like the government working group, and that spirit of openness and constructive collaboration must continue.
Once again my wish is to see the side of Africa to which I feel I belong, be mature enough to have consensus on a single list of candidates and ensure the cost of falsifying the result is extremely high.
Kind regards,
Eddy
On Fri, 13 Jun 2025, 09:54 hvjunk via zanog-discuss, < zanog-discuss@lists.nog.net.za> wrote:
Mark,
It pains me to write this, but from a "new” member’s perspective my 1/2 cents worth:
On 12 Jun 2025, at 18:01, Mark Elkins via zanog-discuss < zanog-discuss@lists.nog.net.za> wrote:
I disagree with Edrich. The list excludes people with institutional memory of AFRINIC.
It doesn’t help that you have the institutional memory, but no electoral support… and that a great part of the African continent (and also of South Africa’s member) do NOT want you elected ;(
I would suggest replacing Adewole Ajao (17 or 20 years of Internet experience) with myself, Mark Elkins, an ex-Board Member of six years at AFRINIC, member of the Institute of Directors (SA) as well as serving on other Boards and has 40 years of Internet experience.
Great, you do have the experience, but UNFORTUNATELY you have the history/baggage of dropping the continent (and AfriNIC members that made the effort to support you) at the worst possible time.
I did not know that myself until I’ve heard this from multiple sources across the continent and South Africa.
Here is the problem Mark: As it stands *today*, I do see you as a vote splitter having support here in ZANOG etc., and playing for the Lu Heng/CIL/NRS team. You might not think that nor intent to do that, but the fact of the matter is, by trying to force yourself in, you are causing more division locally causing weakness and as a result strengthening the LuHeng/CIL/NRS ;(
If you want to redeem yourself, rather own up to your mistake, do ask forgiveness, step aside for the young blood, and avail yourself to ASSIST THEM and guide them in the path ahead from what you’ve experienced.
I’m sorry for what has happened to you while on the board before, but yes, you have let people down, and (having had to learn this 20years ago working at IS): People don’t remember your 10 last good deeds, they remember your last mistake and how you handled that.
Now, I am awaiting to see the next steps what is going to happen in Mu (not just the elections but other legal battles being fought), hoping the election gets done and I get my resources… but mostly I’m (as an invoiced-and-paid-up-new-member-without-resources-for-6months) am afraid of a win for NRS/CIL/LuHeng
Just my ZAR0.005
HEndrik Visage
zanog-discuss mailing list -- zanog-discuss@lists.nog.net.za To unsubscribe send an email to zanog-discuss-leave@lists.nog.net.za
zanog-discuss mailing list -- zanog-discuss@lists.nog.net.za To unsubscribe send an email to zanog-discuss-leave@lists.nog.net.za
zanog-discuss mailing list -- zanog-discuss@lists.nog.net.za To unsubscribe send an email to zanog-discuss-leave@lists.nog.net.za
That was not refraining but taking a second swipe.
From: Amin Dayekh admin@megamore.ng Sent: Monday, 16 June 2025 21:21 To: zanog-discuss@lists.nog.net.za Cc: ronald@amastelek.com Subject: Re: [zanog-discuss] Re: ZANOGs view on the Afrinic Election
Dear Mr Ronald,
I will refrain from this discussion for many reasons. However, for your convenience, Mr Eddy is well aware what I was talking about. I’m not aware about the other (Individuals) holding the same views, my friendly response was to him.
On Mon, Jun 16, 2025 at 12:10 AM ronald--- via zanog-discuss <zanog-discuss@lists.nog.net.za mailto:zanog-discuss@lists.nog.net.za > wrote:
What proof do you have in your accusations that individuals are instructed in the manner you project?
From: Amin Dayekh via zanog-discuss <zanog-discuss@lists.nog.net.za mailto:zanog-discuss@lists.nog.net.za > Sent: Saturday, 14 June 2025 17:39 To: zanog-discuss@lists.nog.net.za mailto:zanog-discuss@lists.nog.net.za Cc: Amin Dayekh <admin@megamore.ng mailto:admin@megamore.ng > Subject: [zanog-discuss] Re: ZANOGs view on the Afrinic Election
Dear Mr Eddy,
I was expecting your interference on this topic to the Tone of (Governments)
Allow me to briefly correct you:
Governments can follow and support our choices and NOT impose and Top bottom list.
Don't be used this time by Smartafrica to pass or acknowledge or serve their agenda!
Governments have been sleeping and still Sleeping, even a statement to support Afrinic/Community is dear to make.
We thank you for hiving your opinion but i repeat: don't say what you don't believe in just because you were (instructed) to say it.
On Sat, Jun 14, 2025 at 8:34 AM Eddy Kayihura via zanog-discuss <zanog-discuss@lists.nog.net.za mailto:zanog-discuss@lists.nog.net.za > wrote:
Dear Colleagues,
I am glad to see the level of attention still given to AFRINIC at this critical junction.
As promised, I committed to stay involved as a community member and I do feel it is important I add my few cents to the ongoing discussion.
Thanks to TISPA’s action in Mauritius court, we do potentially have some additional time to build consensus on the final slate of candidates. Eventually there will be an election and our maturity is currently tested.
We can prove it by our capacity to have a single list of 8 candidates from one side of Africa that will stand against the list of Africans who are on a payroll somewhere.
I want to thank you for the ongoing efforts and wish to add few points to the discussion:
1. A call to the fathers/mothers of the Internet in Africa, those who have shaped institutions, built networks, and opened doors for all of us. I say this with deep gratitude: your continued presence in the community is a source of wisdom and stability. But leadership also means knowing when to pass the torch. It is time to create space for the next generation of individuals who are no longer “new,” but who must now also be thinking about nurturing those who come after them.
Institutional memory does not require a board seat to be impactful. There is wisdom in stepping back from formal structures while continuing to guide and influence through mentorship and open dialogue. 2. Governments are an integral part of our African Internet community. Their engagement should not be seen as external or exceptional, but rather as one of many voices that contribute to the shared stewardship of Africa’s infrastructure. At this moment, their participation carries weight and it would be a serious oversight for the community to foster a governance model in which governments feel sidelined or excluded. We’ve already welcomed their involvement through initiatives like the government working group, and that spirit of openness and constructive collaboration must continue.
Once again my wish is to see the side of Africa to which I feel I belong, be mature enough to have consensus on a single list of candidates and ensure the cost of falsifying the result is extremely high.
Kind regards,
Eddy
On Fri, 13 Jun 2025, 09:54 hvjunk via zanog-discuss, <zanog-discuss@lists.nog.net.za mailto:zanog-discuss@lists.nog.net.za > wrote:
Mark,
It pains me to write this, but from a "new” member’s perspective my 1/2 cents worth:
On 12 Jun 2025, at 18:01, Mark Elkins via zanog-discuss <zanog-discuss@lists.nog.net.za mailto:zanog-discuss@lists.nog.net.za > wrote:
I disagree with Edrich. The list excludes people with institutional memory of AFRINIC.
It doesn’t help that you have the institutional memory, but no electoral support… and that a great part of the African continent (and also of South Africa’s member) do NOT want you elected ;(
I would suggest replacing Adewole Ajao (17 or 20 years of Internet experience) with myself, Mark Elkins, an ex-Board Member of six years at AFRINIC, member of the Institute of Directors (SA) as well as serving on other Boards and has 40 years of Internet experience.
Great, you do have the experience, but UNFORTUNATELY you have the history/baggage of dropping the continent (and AfriNIC members that made the effort to support you) at the worst possible time.
I did not know that myself until I’ve heard this from multiple sources across the continent and South Africa.
Here is the problem Mark: As it stands *today*, I do see you as a vote splitter having support here in ZANOG etc., and playing for the Lu Heng/CIL/NRS team. You might not think that nor intent to do that, but the fact of the matter is, by trying to force yourself in, you are causing more division locally causing weakness and as a result strengthening the LuHeng/CIL/NRS ;(
If you want to redeem yourself, rather own up to your mistake, do ask forgiveness, step aside for the young blood, and avail yourself to ASSIST THEM and guide them in the path ahead from what you’ve experienced.
I’m sorry for what has happened to you while on the board before, but yes, you have let people down, and (having had to learn this 20years ago working at IS): People don’t remember your 10 last good deeds, they remember your last mistake and how you handled that.
Now, I am awaiting to see the next steps what is going to happen in Mu (not just the elections but other legal battles being fought), hoping the election gets done and I get my resources… but mostly I’m (as an invoiced-and-paid-up-new-member-without-resources-for-6months) am afraid of a win for NRS/CIL/LuHeng
Just my ZAR0.005
HEndrik Visage
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What’s your point? What do you want exactly?!
On Tue, Jun 17, 2025 at 1:15 AM ronald@amastelek.com wrote:
That was not refraining but taking a second swipe.
*From:* Amin Dayekh admin@megamore.ng *Sent:* Monday, 16 June 2025 21:21 *To:* zanog-discuss@lists.nog.net.za *Cc:* ronald@amastelek.com *Subject:* Re: [zanog-discuss] Re: ZANOGs view on the Afrinic Election
Dear Mr Ronald,
I will refrain from this discussion for many reasons. However, for your convenience, Mr Eddy is well aware what I was talking about. I’m not aware about the other (Individuals) holding the same views, my friendly response was to him.
On Mon, Jun 16, 2025 at 12:10 AM ronald--- via zanog-discuss < zanog-discuss@lists.nog.net.za> wrote:
What proof do you have in your accusations that individuals are instructed in the manner you project?
*From:* Amin Dayekh via zanog-discuss zanog-discuss@lists.nog.net.za *Sent:* Saturday, 14 June 2025 17:39 *To:* zanog-discuss@lists.nog.net.za *Cc:* Amin Dayekh admin@megamore.ng *Subject:* [zanog-discuss] Re: ZANOGs view on the Afrinic Election
Dear Mr Eddy,
I was expecting your interference on this topic to the Tone of (Governments)
Allow me to briefly correct you:
Governments can follow and support our choices and NOT impose and Top bottom list.
Don't be used this time by Smartafrica to pass or acknowledge or serve their agenda!
Governments have been sleeping and still Sleeping, even a statement to support Afrinic/Community is dear to make.
We thank you for hiving your opinion but i repeat: don't say what you don't believe in just because you were (instructed) to say it.
On Sat, Jun 14, 2025 at 8:34 AM Eddy Kayihura via zanog-discuss < zanog-discuss@lists.nog.net.za> wrote:
Dear Colleagues,
I am glad to see the level of attention still given to AFRINIC at this critical junction.
As promised, I committed to stay involved as a community member and I do feel it is important I add my few cents to the ongoing discussion.
Thanks to TISPA’s action in Mauritius court, we do potentially have some additional time to build consensus on the final slate of candidates. Eventually there will be an election and our maturity is currently tested.
We can prove it by our capacity to have a single list of 8 candidates from one side of Africa that will stand against the list of Africans who are on a payroll somewhere.
I want to thank you for the ongoing efforts and wish to add few points to the discussion:
- A call to the fathers/mothers of the Internet in Africa, those who
have shaped institutions, built networks, and opened doors for all of us. I say this with deep gratitude: your continued presence in the community is a source of wisdom and stability. But leadership also means knowing when to pass the torch. It is time to create space for the next generation of individuals who are no longer “new,” but who must now also be thinking about nurturing those who come after them.
Institutional memory does not require a board seat to be impactful. There is wisdom in stepping back from formal structures while continuing to guide and influence through mentorship and open dialogue. 2. Governments are an integral part of our African Internet community. Their engagement should not be seen as external or exceptional, but rather as one of many voices that contribute to the shared stewardship of Africa’s infrastructure. At this moment, their participation carries weight and it would be a serious oversight for the community to foster a governance model in which governments feel sidelined or excluded. We’ve already welcomed their involvement through initiatives like the government working group, and that spirit of openness and constructive collaboration must continue.
Once again my wish is to see the side of Africa to which I feel I belong, be mature enough to have consensus on a single list of candidates and ensure the cost of falsifying the result is extremely high.
Kind regards,
Eddy
On Fri, 13 Jun 2025, 09:54 hvjunk via zanog-discuss, < zanog-discuss@lists.nog.net.za> wrote:
Mark,
It pains me to write this, but from a "new” member’s perspective my 1/2 cents worth:
On 12 Jun 2025, at 18:01, Mark Elkins via zanog-discuss < zanog-discuss@lists.nog.net.za> wrote:
I disagree with Edrich. The list excludes people with institutional memory of AFRINIC.
It doesn’t help that you have the institutional memory, but no electoral support… and that a great part of the African continent (and also of South Africa’s member) do NOT want you elected ;(
I would suggest replacing Adewole Ajao (17 or 20 years of Internet experience) with myself, Mark Elkins, an ex-Board Member of six years at AFRINIC, member of the Institute of Directors (SA) as well as serving on other Boards and has 40 years of Internet experience.
Great, you do have the experience, but UNFORTUNATELY you have the history/baggage of dropping the continent (and AfriNIC members that made the effort to support you) at the worst possible time.
I did not know that myself until I’ve heard this from multiple sources across the continent and South Africa.
Here is the problem Mark: As it stands *today*, I do see you as a vote splitter having support here in ZANOG etc., and playing for the Lu Heng/CIL/NRS team. You might not think that nor intent to do that, but the fact of the matter is, by trying to force yourself in, you are causing more division locally causing weakness and as a result strengthening the LuHeng/CIL/NRS ;(
If you want to redeem yourself, rather own up to your mistake, do ask forgiveness, step aside for the young blood, and avail yourself to ASSIST THEM and guide them in the path ahead from what you’ve experienced.
I’m sorry for what has happened to you while on the board before, but yes, you have let people down, and (having had to learn this 20years ago working at IS): People don’t remember your 10 last good deeds, they remember your last mistake and how you handled that.
Now, I am awaiting to see the next steps what is going to happen in Mu (not just the elections but other legal battles being fought), hoping the election gets done and I get my resources… but mostly I’m (as an invoiced-and-paid-up-new-member-without-resources-for-6months) am afraid of a win for NRS/CIL/LuHeng
Just my ZAR0.005
HEndrik Visage
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