News of the looming changes in a top decision-making organ has reportedly sent ripples of anxiety through the upper echelons of government. We are told some state functionaries from a particular region have suddenly become uneasy, whispering in hushed tones about their uncertain fate. No one is quite sure who will survive the axe this time. Making matters worse, word is that the swaps will have little to do with performance or loyalty, but everything to do with political capital and accommodating a new power matrix. For now, smiles remain strained and meetings are unusually tense.
