An internationally recognised expert in governance and institutional reforms, political economy analysis and change management, Dr. Joe Abah, OON, has shed light on an intriguing phenomenon; the transformation of private sector critics who step into public service.
In a brief but inspiring write-up, he reasoned why the sharp critiques of these individuals often mellow into humility once they assume government roles.
The statement reads:
“What do you think happens when a critic from the private sector gets into government and suddenly becomes humble? Some say it’s because you can’t speak with your mouth full. Not necessarily true. Often, you are not chopping anything other than your meagre salary…IF you are an honest public servant.
“Often, you don’t realise that in the private sector, your job might be to sell as much Coke and make as much profit as possible. When you are selling Coke, you don’t care about how many children’s teeth are getting rotten or how many adults are getting addicted to what you sell. In fact, the more that are addicted, the better for you.
“You don’t have to balance gender, ethnicity, religion, culture, politics or the self interest of your boss, since you may not have the same ultimate control that you had in the private sector.
“Suddenly, you realise that it’s not rocket science. It’s harder than that. Then you become gentle.”
