In my opinion, discussing why Paradox wants to follow their design decision is a matter of speculation. The "why" isn't the issue that should be discussed. The issue that should be discussed is what we can suggest the development team change, while keeping the apparently critical design criterion of "Hordes must reform or die" in mind, in order for Horde gameplay to be more satisfactory. If I missed a statement recently that says that "reform or die" is no longer the focus for future Horde gameplay, then I guess I'm wrong here.
Anyways, looking back at the OP after drinking a few cups of coffee has shown me why my response doesn't fit. My sleep deprived mind read the first statement as an implied suggestion to fix it. I stick by my statement, however, that having the reforming mechanic tied to the Nomad tech group might be an adequate fix. Maybe have the decision code posted above applied to the game but adding it to all nations in the Nomad tech group that might change governments without reforming.
However, I certainly don't agree with the criterion that "Hordes must reform or die." Let that be clear. However, I prefer to suggest solutions that stay within design criteria that seem to have a critical, must-have priority.