Political elites between cohesion and fragmentation: An approach to leadership and political stability

Abstract

The nature of political stability depends directly on how ruling elites interact with the leadership. Ideologically closed elites, despite their integration, create a superficial and fragile stability that lacks flexibility. In contrast, pluralistic elites whose rivalries are managed within institutional frameworks are more resilient and able to absorb shocks. Elites use their primary resources, position, influence, wealth, expertise, and organization to transform their power into real authority that shapes leaders and determines state policy. This influence can lead either to individual rule that weakens institutions or to robust institutional stability. The latter stability is achieved when legitimacy, accountability, clarity of purpose, discipline, and trust are present. To transform the elite's role into an effective and coordinated force, It is imperative to establish laws to address conflicts of interest, replace quotas with clear coalition agreements, support decisions with objective assessments, and strengthen partnerships with civil society. The goal is to achieve positive, flexible stability capable of development.