Opinion:A Critical Look at the New Government: Change or Business as Usual?
A Critical Look at the New Government: Change or Business as Usual?
The change of government always comes with high expectations from the public. The promise of reform, transparency, and renewed faith in the democratic system is often the rallying cry of any incoming administration. However, history has shown that a change at the top does not always translate into real change where it matters most—within the system itself. Dr. ‘Aisake Eke and his new government now face a critical challenge: delivering on the public’s demand for meaningful reform while avoiding the pitfalls of maintaining the status quo.
The Danger of ‘Business as Usual’
One of the most pressing concerns facing the new government is if it decides to retain key officials who served under the previous administration. While experience and continuity are often cited as reasons to keep certain individuals in place, this approach risks alienating the very voters who will support the change in the late 2025 general election. Public dissatisfaction with the previous government was not solely about its leadership but also about the systemic issues of inefficiency, corruption, and lack of accountability. The perception that the same officials will be executing new policies could easily undermine the credibility of the new administration. Can Dr. Eke risk this and be seen as a leader too scared to make changes for the benefit of the people?
Dr. Eke must recognize that voters are watching closely. If his government is seen as merely changing the guards at the top while allowing the “rot” to persist, public frustration will mount rapidly. A failure to address these deeper systemic issues could result in the new government being judged harshly at the polls, potentially facing a short tenure of just 10 months before voters exact their punishment.
Is a New Cabinet Enough?
Reports suggest that Dr. Eke’s new-look Cabinet will exclude anyone from the previous government. While this move signals an intention to distance his administration from past failures, the question remains: is that enough? This decision, while bold, carries significant political risk. Simply changing the Cabinet without addressing the entrenched inefficiencies and systemic corruption within the broader government framework could be seen as an empty gesture.
This is a political gamble that Dr. Eke and his colleagues cannot afford to miscalculate. If the new government fails to deliver substantive reforms, the public will view these changes as superficial. Such a perception would spell political suicide for Dr. Eke and his administration, a reality he must confront before taking office in the coming days.
A Mandate for Real Change
The public’s demand for change is not just about removing a few individuals or introducing new policies—it is about overhauling the culture of governance. Dr. Eke and his team must avoid the trap of trying to work with the same officials “as business as usual.” This approach risks perpetuating the very issues that led to the previous administration’s downfall.
If the government is serious about restoring faith in the democratic system, it must prioritize:
- A Clean Sweep of Key Positions: Ensuring that those who were complicit in the failures of the previous administration are replaced with individuals committed to the new government’s vision.
- Transparency in Appointments: Showing the public that appointments are based on merit and integrity, not political alliances or favoritism.
- Rooting Out Corruption: Demonstrating zero tolerance for corruption at all levels, with swift action against those who undermine public trust.
- Engaging the Public: Maintaining open communication with voters to show that their concerns are being addressed and that the government is accountable to the people.
Judged by the Same Standards
Dr. Eke and his colleagues were vocal critics of the previous government, highlighting its failures and shortcomings. Now, they will be judged by those same standards. The expectation is that they will not only talk about change but actively deliver it. The public will scrutinize their actions, and any indication of “business as usual” will quickly erode support.
The Road Ahead
The new government must act decisively in its first 100 days to demonstrate its commitment to reform. This period is critical for setting the tone and showing voters that they were right to place their trust in this new administration. The honeymoon period is short, and the stakes are high. Failure to deliver real change could lead to a swift fall from grace, leaving voters disillusioned and the democratic process further weakened.
Dr. Eke’s challenge is clear: to ensure that the perception of change is matched by substantive action. Anything less risks not only the reputation of his government but also the trust and hope of the people. The clock is ticking, and the voters are watching.
Melino Maka
