Are ministerial appointments based more on loyalty or competence?

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Ministerial Appointments Prioritise Loyalty and Continuity Over Competence

The recent Cabinet appointments by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob appear to lean heavily towards rewarding loyalty and ensuring governmental continuity, rather than a comprehensive assessment of competence, particularly in light of past performance. This strategy suggests a primary focus on political stability and maintaining existing alliances, even if it means retaining ministers who faced criticism for their handling of the Covid-19 crisis. The selection of 31 ministers and 38 deputy ministers, with all but four having served in the previous administration, underscores this emphasis on continuity.
Senior Posts Awarded to Key Allies

Several key allies who supported Ismail Sabri’s nomination as prime minister have retained senior ministerial positions. Datuk Seri Azmin Ali continues as a senior minister and heads the Ministry of International Trade and Industry, while Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainuddin remains in charge of the powerful Home Affairs Ministry. Similarly, Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein was kept on as a senior minister overseeing the security cluster and has also been entrusted with the Defence portfolio. These appointments suggest a deliberate effort to secure the support of influential figures within the governing coalition.
Continuity in Pandemic Response

A significant driver for the Cabinet’s composition appears to be the need for continuity in the government's ongoing response to the Covid-19 pandemic. By largely maintaining the previous ministerial lineup, Ismail Sabri aims to ensure a consistent approach to managing the health crisis and its economic repercussions. This approach avoids disrupting established strategies and allows for a smoother transition, although it also means some ministers previously criticised for their handling of the pandemic remain in place.
A Strategic Health Appointment

In contrast to the general trend, the appointment of Khairy Jamaluddin as the new health minister stands out as a potential nod to competence. Khairy Jamaluddin, who was widely lauded for his role in the National Covid-19 Immunisation Programme (NIP), replaces Datuk Seri Adham Baba, who had faced considerable criticism. This move signals a recognition of Khairy's capabilities in managing a critical ministry, especially given the ongoing demands of the pandemic and the vaccination rollout.
Avoiding Internal Party Divisions

The Prime Minister's decision to omit Umno deputy president Datuk Seri Mohammad Hassan from the Cabinet is interpreted as a strategic move to prevent internal party divisions and consolidate loyalty within Umno. By not including figures perceived to be outside his immediate faction, Ismail Sabri may be positioning himself for future political ambitions while ensuring a cohesive base of support within his own party. This focus on internal party dynamics further reinforces the notion that loyalty has been a primary consideration in these appointments.

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Are ministerial appointments based more on loyalty or competence?

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