This article examines whether military rule is better than the civilian rule and vice-versa. It provides the advantages of each system of government and gives room for readers to build on any of the points highlighted.
What is a Democratic Government?
Democracy is a form of government in which all eligible citizens have an equal say in the decisions that affect their lives. Democracy allows people to participate equally—either directly or through elected representatives—in the laws’ proposal, development, and creation. i.e., A democratic government is ruled by civilians, usually elected by the people. Democracy is ruled by the constitution and reign of civil laws, which are reasonably justifiable in a democratic society with civilians exercising all legislative, executive, and judicial powers.
A democratic government contrasts two forms of government where power is either held by one, as in a monarchy or where power is held by a small number of individuals, as in an oligarchy or aristocracy. Nevertheless, these oppositions, inherited from Greek philosophy, are now ambiguous because contemporary governments have mixed democratic, oligarchic, and monarchic elements. Several variants of democracy exist, but there are two primary forms that concern how the whole body of citizens executes its will: direct democracy and representative democracy.
Read: Is democracy the best form of government?
What is a Military Government
A military government is ruled by the armed forces, who do not come to power through election, but by force of arms. A military regime is a process, procedure, or system with expertise, adapted and rooted in war and combat. It is a system rooted in martial law and forces. It is also a system that demands obedience always and, in its purest essence, makes no room for debate and opposition.
Some of the features of military rule include Suspension of the constitution, absence of an election, use of decrees and edicts, lack of respect for fundamental human rights, no checks and balances, centralized form of government, no periodic election, etc.
Read: Causes and remedies to indiscipline in schools
Is military rule better than the civilian rule?
Below are the advantages of civilian rule and military rule. This will help you give the essential points to defend the side you want to take, i.e., Military rule is better than a civilian rule, or civilian rule is better than military rule.
Civilian Rule
- There are ways to resolve different views and conflicts peacefully.
- It is a government by the people and for the people
- Respect for human dignity.
- The freedom to act, speak and think freely (as long as it does not stop others from doing the same).
- Equality before the law.
- Safe and secure community.
- It is a system of government that is efficient, transparent, responsive, and accountable to citizens.
- Ability to hold elected representatives accountable.
- Opposition and criticism are tolerated.
Military Rule
- The military has protocol and structure.
- Protection of life and properties is ensured in a military regime.
- Decision-making is faster in military regimes than in civilian.
- It instills discipline and brings about order and corporate living among people in society.
- Control of corruption
- It is cost-effective. Since the election is not conducted, billions spent on this process are avoided.
- There is respect of authority
- Criminal activities are minimal. Martial law can quickly illuminate all criminals.
Military naturally commands respect and fear that is enough to make everyone do what is right while the nation develops with people marginalizing one another.
