NEW DRUG CZAR'S CHALLENGE

Gov. Ronnie Musgrove made a bold and creative appointment when he chose
Jackson television executive and community activist Frank Melton as leader
of the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics.

But Melton is a man of contrasts whose strengths must produce success
before his weaknesses are allowed to ferment this opportunity. First,
Melton is less obscure among voters. Stop anyone on the street and ask them
whether his predecessor, Don Strange, did a good job and they would likely
reply, "Who is Don Strange?"

Melton's number of devoted followers will assist him in running through
legislative roadblocks and funding shortages. Melton can motivate voters
against problem legislators. However, with his fame comes notoriety and
with supporters come opponents that already stand against him.

Second, Melton has a proven track record of successful management and
strong leadership. He has a vision for success. Often times government
officials have only a vision for the status quo.

But his vision is sure to encounter resistance from a law enforcement
agency with established methods of action that may resent change from an
outsider. Third, Melton not only has vision, but he also has passion. He
desires to end the destructive cancer of narcotics on our state.

This passion is not rooted in political power, nor does it spring from
greed; it is based on truly caring for the victims of the drug culture.
Unfortunately, passion can become obsession and when faced with the
prospect of competing priorities, Melton may not bend to political diplomacy.

In the end, it will be interesting to watch whether Melton quits in
frustration or is fired for perceived insubordination. He has a goal he
wants to accomplish and will likely let no one stand in his way, including
the governor, his boss. Some have accused Musgrove of playing politics with
this appointment. Why else would he appoint someone with no law enforcement
experience to such a position unless he thought it would help him in 2003?

The governor should be commended for seeking a new solution to an old
problem that traditional methods have failed to resolve. But if Melton
fails, - which we hope he does not - law enforcement will hold Musgrove
responsible.