Yet another round of changes in government, yet another setback in the hope for genuine reform.
There are no faces in this cabinet that can be construed as reformers or that inspire confidence or inspiration to frustrated voters. Some appointments like former wrestling champion D Sumyabazar as Minister of Mining and Heavy Industry, an area that he has shown no expertise in, seem downright cynical. Given the centrality of the mining sector to Mongolia this appointment seems especially callous. Other appointments may not be exciting, but at least they bring some competence into their portfolios. Foreign Minister D Tsogtbaatar has previously focused on foreign policy. Ch Khurelbaatar is seen as a strong choice for the Finance Ministry. While Ts Nyamdorj is somewhat tainted by his dismissal as speaker of parliament for changing a law after it had been passed in 2007, he is also seen as a champion of pursuing transparency in some recent scandals and thus a good choice in the Justice Ministry. Once again, only two women have been appointed to minor ministries.
A cabinet built around a purely political compromise is unlikely to make the radical decisions that will give the public service some much needed independence and stability. Instead, bureaucrats and Mongolians who have to deal with the public service, are likely bracing for another round of personnel rotations.
Seems to explain delays and frustration
EXR Price at posting:
9.2¢ Sentiment: Buy Disclosure: Held
