Anthony Kila unveils new book series on leadership, decision-making
Prof Anthony Kila has introduced a new book series titled “Crucial Cs before D,” offering a fresh perspective on leadership and decision-making by arguing that successful decisions are rooted in careful preparation rather than mere decisiveness.
The publication examines why intelligent and well-meaning leaders often make decisions that later prove costly, despite relying on expert advice, detailed planning and decisive action.
According to the books, leadership failures frequently arise because critical foundations for sound decision-making are overlooked long before policies are announced and continue to have consequences long after decision-makers have left office.
Rather than promoting quick-fix leadership strategies or motivational slogans, Kila proposes a disciplined framework centred on a series of interconnected principles, described as the “Crucial Cs.” These include character, consideration, consultation, commonsense, connectedness, consistency, constraint and consequence.
The author argues that each of these elements should be viewed not simply as admirable virtues but as practical disciplines that leaders must consistently apply before making important decisions.
Through a collection of essays, the books explore how leadership decisions are influenced by individual thinking, institutional environments and the timeframes leaders choose to prioritise or ignore.
Drawing on insights from history, economics, law, management, psychology and cultural studies, Kila illustrates how poor outcomes often result not from a lack of knowledge but from a failure to integrate different aspects of sound judgement.
The work also references examples from public policy and organisational leadership, while incorporating perspectives from diverse civilisations across Africa, Asia and Europe, from Athens to London.
According to the author, excellence in one aspect of leadership cannot compensate for neglect in another, stressing that effective leadership depends on balancing multiple considerations rather than relying solely on confidence or speed.
At the heart of “Crucial Cs before D” is the argument that good judgement requires leaders to weigh competing demands, avoid rushing to conclusions and remain conscious of the long-term consequences of their actions.
The books contend that true leadership is demonstrated through restraint, preparation and respect for time rather than boldness alone.
Targeted at leaders in government, business and complex institutions, the series is also written to appeal to general readers interested in governance and organisational leadership.
Rather than promising easy solutions, the books present what Kila describes as a framework for making decisions more deliberately, governing more responsibly and building institutions capable of enduring future challenges.
