A Cabinet with a difference

Given the Cabinet appointments, realignments and reshuffles we have witnessed in our history, one wonders what is required and what specific criteria are used to select citizens for the position of minister or Cabinet member. Though we know that in our Westminster system of politics that prerogative is the sole purview of the Prime Minister to choose his/her Cabinet of Ministers, it might be a worthwhile act to imagine other possibilities.

Perhaps, it is time we consider changing the process of making Cabinet appointments to be less party-centric to be more competency-based and persons with proven track records in performance, or those with passion, drive, and vision, as one does not want to automatically exclude younger persons from rising to such high office. If I were invited to form a Cabinet of Ministers, the following would be some of the criteria and qualities required:

• Persons must be professional with relevant training and experience in their field of endeavour, with some international exposure .
• Individuals who have demonstrated levels of empathy & community involvement, as well as a demonstrated advocacy/activism for people matters will be highly considered.
• People who have demonstrated capacity to mobilise resources and inspire people with requisite leadership skills, and networking capabilities, and who are proven to be action-oriented.
• People who are able to disagree and provide sufficient support for their arguments based on wisdom, research and experience, and not simply political expediency or considerations are certainly good Cabinet choices. An individual capable of presenting new ideas and perspectives will be warmly encouraged to apply.

Moving forward we might consider opening up an application process for citizens both here and abroad to submit their CVs for consideration for a Cabinet position, and then we would attract the type of dedicated and competent persons, young or senior, who would selflessly make the kind of contribution to our Republic towards achieving sustainable development.

Keston Perry
Via e-mail