The resignation of Yolanda Díaz from the leadership of Sumar has left the coalition in a compromised situation and has put it back on the table the problem of hyperleadership. This term, which has been recurrent in groups such as Ciudadanos, Podemos, and in the first days of Pedro Sánchez’s leadership in the PSOE, resurfaces strongly in the current political context.
Hyperleadership is not a new concept, but it has gained relevance with the emergence of new politics. This innovative model transcends traditional parties, revolving around a charismatic leader who centralizes power and decisions. The lack of internal opposition and absolute control of appointments and messages, facilitated by intense media exposure, They make the leader the main focus of attraction for the electorate. However, this system presents serious risks: the departure of the leader, as in the case of Yolanda Díaz, usually leaves the party weakened and without a clear direction.
The hyper leadership It is a double-edged sword. Although it can boost weak formations by providing them with a strong projection point, it also makes them extremely dependent on their central figure. This model makes it difficult to stabilize a solid organic structure, since the leader does not usually delegate to a robust team that can support him in the event of electoral failure. Furthermore, these groups tend to frequently change their acronyms to adapt to new alliances, which creates confusion and complicates the consolidation of their brand.
Increasingly tough electoral campaigns mean greater wear and tear on these leaders. The former leader of the Popular Party Pablo Casadofor example, suffered notable wear and tear after two electoral contests in 2019, despite having been elected in primaries and forming his team to his liking.
Leadership succession is also problematic, as seen with the fall of Ciudadanos after Albert Rivera and with the disintegration of UPyD after Rosa Diez. Currently, the PSOE faces a similar challenge with leadership management after the five days of Pedro Sánchez reflection.
Historically, hyperleadership has worked in different contexts. In the United Kingdom, figures such as Winston Churchill and Margaret Thatcher They personified this model. Churchill, with his energy, honesty and conviction, and Thatcher, with her decisive, one-man approach, achieved great successes. On the other hand, in Italy, Silvio Berlusconi He combined personalism and populism, turning his face into the logo of his party and establishing a political model centered on his figure.
