As political and media circles increasingly talk about an imminent cabinet reshuffle, previous remarks made by Senator Omar Al-Ayasrah have resurfaced. He once sarcastically stated, “Everyone wearing a tie in Jordan these days dreams of becoming a minister.”

 

Although the statement was made in a humorous, offhanded manner, much of what Al-Ayasrah said resonates with the political reality we witness during every cabinet change. Names compete in the shadows, rumors intensify, and some people wear their ties more in preparation for their appointment photos than for the responsibility that comes with the role.

 

On the other hand, there are individuals who genuinely deserve to step into the spotlight—if given the chance—not because of appearances or a fleeting desire for position, but because of their experience, qualifications, and awareness that a ministerial role is not about prestige, but about bearing a heavy national responsibility.

 

Here, it's important to distinguish between those who wear a tie out of ambition, and those who wear it out of respect for the occasion. And, if I may say this jokingly, I wear a tie during meetings and professional settings—not because it's a pathway to office, but because it reflects respect, commitment, and discipline in public service. I am not among those racing for ministerial seats; I am fully aware that such a position is a burden of responsibility, not a fleeting honor.

 

Al-Ayasrah was right—at least in reference to some—when he pointed to the phenomenon of the “political tie.” But he certainly knows that there are a few who wear it as products of institutions, thought, and experience—not as seekers of titles.

 

Today, the scene repeats itself. Names are circulating. But integrity and competence remain the true test. The nation needs individuals who wear the tie and carry the weight of responsibility—not those who are satisfied with just the appearance.

 

As I observe the names being floated in discussions surrounding the upcoming reshuffle, I feel compelled—as a citizen first—to offer sincere advice to Prime Minister Jaafar Hassan:

 

If a reshuffle is indeed on the horizon, it would be more worthwhile and beneficial to give a chance to experienced youth and those with fresh perspectives. Not because former ministers were less competent or underperformed—God forbid—but because renewal is part of life. Injecting new blood into the ministerial body grants governments vitality and proves that Jordan is rich in non-traditional talent.

 

This is by no means a diminishment of the value of those who came before; every era has its people, and every stage has its requirements. But recycling the same names and faces reflects an inability to renew—not a genuine need for these individuals. Healthy change is that which blends experience with youth, accumulated expertise with ambitious vision, giving space to those brave enough to present unconventional ideas and have a voice that is heard—not merely counted.

 

Such change will only be possible if the government finds the courage to avoid copying previous ministers, to move past safe choices, and to place trust in new figures capable of presence, decision-making, and achievement. In the end, a tie is merely a piece of fabric adorning the neck—but it is the mind that is adorned with thought.