Oommen Chandy: Leading the Masses with the 90% Rule

Oommen Chandy: A Servant Leader Motivated by Compassion

A Life of Service

Oommen Chandy, the former chief minister of Kerala, recently passed away after a long battle with cancer, bringing an end to a political career that spanned over five decades. Throughout his time in politics, Chandy was driven by a deep-rooted philosophy: politics is an opportunity to serve the people. He was a go-getter who believed in taking action rather than striving for perfection, understanding that mistakes were inevitable but fixable. Chandy’s approach was guided by his convictions and a genuine sense of compassion.

The 90% Rule

Chandy’s approach to problem-solving can be summed up by his famous 90% rule. He believed that if he aimed to accomplish 100 things, even if 10 of them went wrong, he would still be able to achieve 90 things. Chandy was not afraid to embrace failure and learn from his mistakes. He recognized that there was a system in place to correct errors, and he trusted the officials involved to point out any missteps. This philosophy allowed Chandy to prioritize action over analysis, ensuring that he accomplished as much as possible for the people he served.

Rejecting Ego and False Prestige

Chandy’s commitment to his role as a social worker and ruler extended to his rejection of ego and false prestige. Instead of getting caught up in the success or failure of individual initiatives, he focused on the bigger picture. Chandy understood that true leadership meant putting the needs of the people above personal pride. By letting go of any attachment to his own reputation, he was able to better serve and address the grievances of those he represented.

The Mass Contact Programme and United Nations Recognition

A Platform for Direct Engagement

Chandy’s dedication to serving the people was exemplified by his launch of the Mass Contact Programme. This initiative provided him with a platform for direct engagement with the public, allowing him to listen to their concerns and address their grievances. It was during these interactions that Chandy displayed his remarkable ability to make quick decisions, even in the face of complex and multifaceted issues. His calm demeanor and ability to distill different perspectives into actionable solutions earned him the admiration and respect of those around him.

The United Nations Public Service Award

Chandy’s unwavering commitment to public service through the Mass Contact Programme earned him international recognition. In 2011, he was honored with the United Nations Public Service Award for his innovative and effective approach to governance. This prestigious accolade reaffirmed Chandy’s belief in the power of direct engagement and highlighted the positive impact his leadership had on the lives of the people he served.

A Legacy of Trust and Meticulousness

A Leader Who Trusted His Officials

Chandy’s leadership style was characterized by a deep trust in his officials. He believed that his team of dedicated civil servants had the expertise and dedication necessary to tackle the challenges faced by the state of Kerala. This trust placed a great deal of responsibility on the shoulders of his officials, inspiring them to be extra meticulous in their work. Chandy’s approach fostered collaboration and mutual respect, resulting in a more effective and efficient government.

A Fond Farewell

N S Madhavan, a former civil servant and celebrated writer, recalled his experience working with Chandy during his tenure as the Finance Minister. Madhavan highlighted Chandy’s total trust in his officers and the significant pressure it placed on them to perform at their best. The fond memories and respect held by Madhavan and others for Chandy serve as a testament to his leadership and dedication to public service.

Conclusion: A Compassionate Leader with a Lasting Impact

Oommen Chandy’s political career was distinguished by his philosophy of service and the belief that politics was an avenue to make a meaningful difference in the lives of the people he represented. Through his 90% rule, Chandy showcased his unwavering commitment to action, even in the face of inevitable mistakes. His Mass Contact Programme provided a unique forum for direct engagement, enabling him to better understand the grievances of the people he served. Chandy’s legacy is one of trust, compassion, and a willingness to learn from both success and failure. He leaves behind a lasting impact on the state of Kerala and a reminder of the power of servant leadership.