OPINION: Political leaders facing pandemic-scale problems Political leadership is always demanded whether in central or local governments and this has especially been the case during the coronavirus pandemic. There is no objective, scientific way, however, to determine what makes a good or bad leader because the answer depends on the public's judgment about what has been achieved on their behalf. The leader is seen as wonderful if they offer benefits; if not, it can be a nightmare. From the leaders' point of view, they are engaged in a fight to achieve their political goals by deciding how best to use the limited resources and opportunities at their disposal.