Finance Minister Change: UMY Professor Highlights Communication Etiquette
The sudden replacement of Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa by Suahasil Nazara in the position of Finance Minister on Monday (14/9) has come under scrutiny. Ridho Al-Hamdi, a Professor of Political Parties and Party Systems at the Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta (UMY), stated that while ministerial changes are within the President’s authority as ministers serve as presidential aides, this authority should still be viewed through the lens of administrative propriety.
“A leader still needs to demonstrate respect for those who previously performed duties as their aide,” Prof. Ridho noted, as quoted on Wednesday (16/9).
He mentioned that before being removed, it is appropriate for a minister to receive official notification. The individual concerned should be summoned beforehand and informed that a transition is forthcoming.
“Power indeed possesses the authority to make decisions, but propriety and communication remain vital. Power can feel harsh when someone currently performing their duties suddenly has to receive such a decision,” he explained.
According to Prof. Ridho, this dynamic highlights the importance of communication during the transition of public officials. Changes in ministerial figures are not merely political decisions but also involve the continuity of bureaucratic work and government coordination.
From a bureaucratic perspective, sudden changes in officials have the potential to affect the internal dynamics of a ministry, especially when programmes and bureaucratic restructuring are underway.
“When a change occurs, what must be maintained is the system. The government must continue to operate based on regulations and the public interest,” he clarified.
He added that political parties and those in power must develop a vision for the people’s interests, rather than solely for the interests of their positions or groups. Ultimately, the government will deal directly with the people, who feel the impact of every political decision.