Question

Explain with an example how popular governments can be undemocratic and popular leaders can be autocratic.

Answer 1

Since its independence in 1980, Zimbabwe has been ruled by ZANU-PF, the party that led the freedom struggle. Its leader, Robert Mugabe, has been ruling the country since then. Elections have been held regularly and always won by ZANU-PF. President Mugabe is popular but also uses unfair practices in elections. Over the years his government has changed the constitution several times to increase the powers of the President and make him less accountable. Opposition party workers are harassed and their meeting disrupted. Public protests and demonstrations against the government are declared illegal. There is a law that limits the right to criticize the President. Television and radio are controlled by the government and give only the ruling party's version.