The transition of political leaders from the pre-election period to leading a country is a significant event which requires a multitude of personal and professional skills
- The problem: The transformation of political leaders when they assume power often results in a loss of public trust, insecurity and disturbance within the party and affects the stability and cohesion of the government.
- Why it matters: This transformation is important because it determines the course of political decisions in the country and also influences the relationship between a government and its citizens.
- The solution: Overall, the transformation of political leaders when they come to power is a broad phenomenon influenced by many factors. Understanding these factors can contribute to improving governance and effectively implementing political programmes.
As Abraham Lincoln once said, “If you want to test a man’s character, give him power”. The transition of political leaders from the pre-election period to the exercise of power is a significant event that affects both the political leaders themselves and the political system and society at large. Political power is a crucial factor in the lives of political leaders, bringing about significant changes in how they perceive themselves and how they interact with their environment. This transformation is complex and influenced by many factors, such as social expectations, the personal characteristics of the political leader and their personal political experience.
Adaptation to political reality
Adapting to the political environment is a significant issue during the transition to power. Political leaders, upon assuming power, are forced to adapt to the political and social conditions of the place they will govern, taking into account the limited resources and political constraints that exist. Their ability to manage this adaptation is crucial for managing change and achieving their political goals.
When a new political leader takes office, they face the challenge of fulfilling the expectations of the citizens who elected them while maintaining the integrity of their political values. This often means achieving a balanced mix between electoral promises and the real constraints imposed by political reality.
Adapting to this reality often involves addressing political problems and crises that were not on their agenda during the election campaign period. Economic difficulties, international crises, internal adversities or other unforeseen challenges are included in this reality. The key to successful adaptation to political reality is flexibility, honesty and the politician’s commitment to public service for cooperation. New political leaders must be willing to learn from their mistakes, listen to the opinions of their collaborators as well as bureaucratic factors and adjust their policies to constantly changing conditions.
From charismatic electioneering to responsible governance
During the election period, many political leaders present themselves in a way that focuses on their charismatic personalities as well as the promises they make when they come to power. However, when they come to power, they are forced to face the reality of public governance. This often means making difficult choices and communicating differently from what they used during their election campaign period.
Managing citizens’ expectations of the political leader
The pre-election period is often filled with promises and dream-building. However, when political leaders take power, they are forced to face the reality of limited public resources and political constraints. They are forced to deal with the high expectations that accompany their entry into power because, during the election period, promises were made for change and improvement that may be difficult to achieve under the real conditions that exist in public administration.
Changes in the self-perception of the political leader
One of the most significant changes that occur during the transition from the role of a candidate to the role of a governor is the change in the self-perception of the political leader. During the election period, candidates often focus on criticising the incumbent politician and promoting their ideas for change and reform in their country. This transition can affect their self-esteem and lead them to a more mature and realistic perception of their role. It is clear that when political leaders gain power, they must face the reality of the political constraints that exist in public administration and adapt to their role as governors.
Political leaders requires skills in managing change, resisting the pressure of expectations and the ability to adapt to the new conditions that arise.
When a political leader comes into power, they often experience an entirely new reality. The change from the role of an opposition or a candidate to that of a senior official brings with it a new level of responsibility and contemplation. The political leader must realise that they are now the ones making decisions and influencing the lives of citizens.
To close, the words of Lyndon B. Johnson…
The transition of political leaders into power is a complex and multi-dimensional phenomenon that affects both their political perception and their personality. Overall, the transformation of political leaders during the exercise of power is a broad phenomenon influenced by many factors. Understanding these parameters can contribute to improving governance and effectively implementing political programmes. This transformation of political leaders requires skills in managing change, resisting the pressure of expectations and the ability to adapt to the new conditions that arise. Only in this way can leaders maintain the authenticity of their character and achieve the goals they have set for themselves and the society they have pledged to serve.
Overall, the political leader must face the pressure of expectations from citizens and society at large. Achieving electoral promises and addressing society’s problems requires determination and dedication. The political leader must be prepared to make difficult decisions and face possible criticisms. In closing, we could use the words of Lyndon B. Johnson, the 36th President of the United States: “When the burdens of the presidency seem unusually heavy, I always remind myself that they could be worse. I could be a mayor.”
