From Elections to Governance: The Critical Transition for Reformist Leaders
Introduction
As the world transitions from the historic “year of elections” to the anticipated “year of governance,” newly elected leaders face immense challenges and opportunities. The electoral upheavals of 2024 have already reshaped political landscapes globally, and the onus now falls on these new leaders to deliver on their promises and navigate the complex realities of governance.
Significant Political Shifts of 2024
The year 2024 has been marked by significant political changes. In Poland, a united coalition of pro-democracy parties achieved a historic victory, spurred by unprecedented turnout among women and young voters. Similarly, in India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won the general election but lost its parliamentary majority, signaling a shift influenced by regional movements and social-justice campaigns. Meanwhile, in Senegal, mass protests against former President Macky Sall’s attempt to extend his term led to the election of Bassirou Diomaye Faye, a former tax inspector with an anti-corruption platform.
Challenges Ahead for Reformist Leaders
As the world moves from electoral victories to governance in 2025, newly elected reformist leaders must tackle several key challenges to ensure they deliver on their campaign promises and strengthen democratic systems. These challenges include the “five Ds” of democratic (re)construction, debunking propaganda, discord, debt, and disasters.
1. Democratic (Re)Construction
To prevent democratic backsliding, reformist leaders must reinforce core democratic institutions such as the legislature, judiciary, and independent government agencies. The example of Ukraine’s 2014 Revolution of Dignity illustrates this point. After ousting Viktor Yanukovych’s corrupt regime, Ukraine’s new government implemented extensive anti-corruption measures, including judiciary vetting and transparency tools like open-access databases. This approach helped restore integrity to public administration and strengthened democratic institutions.
2. Confronting Propaganda
New leaders must also address sophisticated information operations aimed at undermining their legitimacy. For instance, Taiwan has faced relentless efforts by China to destabilize its democracy through false narratives. Similarly, Moldova’s President Maia Sandu has been combating pro-Russian propaganda and cyberattacks from both domestic and foreign sources. Effective countermeasures against misinformation and propaganda are crucial for maintaining democratic legitimacy and public trust.
3. Addressing Social and Political Discord
Reformist governments often inherit societies with deep-seated social and political divisions. Addressing these issues is essential for fostering national unity. In Guatemala, President Bernardo Arévalo has engaged in dialogue with Indigenous communities, acknowledging their historical grievances and working to address their needs. Such efforts can help bridge societal divides and build a more cohesive society.
4. Managing Debt Distress
Debt distress poses a significant obstacle to implementing essential economic and social programs. For example, when Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema assumed office in 2021, he faced a crippling debt burden from undisclosed loans, particularly from China. Zambia’s debt crisis has forced the government to allocate more resources to servicing debt than to critical sectors like health and education. Similarly, in Kenya, President William Ruto faced widespread protests against a controversial finance bill aimed at reducing the country’s $80 billion debt, highlighting the destabilizing effect of debt on governance.
5. Responding to Climate-Related Disasters
The increasing frequency of climate-related disasters presents another challenge for new leaders. With global temperatures rising, the intensity and occurrence of extreme weather events are expected to increase significantly. Leaders must establish robust systems for disaster response and recovery while upholding democratic principles such as transparency and accountability. In climate-vulnerable countries like Malawi, where floods and droughts have led to severe food insecurity, effective disaster management is crucial for protecting vulnerable populations and ensuring long-term resilience.
Conclusion
As the world shifts from the tumult of election years to the practicalities of governance, newly elected reformist leaders face the critical task of addressing the “five Ds” and delivering on their promises. Success in these areas can lead to significant democratic renewal and improved living standards. Conversely, failure to navigate these challenges effectively risks undermining democratic processes and pushing voters toward populist alternatives. The coming year of governance holds the potential for transformative change, provided that leaders can overcome these obstacles and build a more just and equitable society.