Democracy, as we know it today, has become the most widely embraced system of government across the world. It is a government of the people, by the people, and for the people, allowing citizens to choose their leaders and participate in decision-making. Unlike a monarchical system, where power is passed down through bloodlines and citizens have little to no say in who rules over them, democracy thrives on participation and choice. While monarchies often symbolize tradition, stability, and continuity, democracy presents itself as a platform for freedom, accountability, and equality. But with all its promises, the question remains: has democracy truly delivered on its ideals, or has it become just another system with its own flaws?
Remember, I said, in a democracy, it gives the citizens the chance to choose their leader and also helps them play the role of decision makers. One thing I love about democracy is its basic definition.
It is a government of the people, by the people, and for the people.
It's so funny and sad at the same time that the democracy that is the government of the people is no longer the government of the people but the government of a few elite. Let me break this down. The word
Government of the people
Means that the government is meant to be chosen by the people. The people know who they want to rule them based on merit and what the person promised them, so they the person refuses to withhold his promise, the person can be impeached or removed, but, sadly, it is no longer government of the people but Government of the elite. The elite now choose who they want as a leader because it is going to suit and favor all their plan, not minding what the people have to say.
Government by the people
Means the people are the ones to make their choice after the one who wants to rule has come out from the people; they have the right to vote for who they feel is the best for them, but these same people now run away from politics, leaving the elite to do what they want. It is very sad to see people say, "I am not interested in politics" because they are doing well financially, but they forget that every decision made by the person in power is going to affect them.
I dislike it when people are politically apathetic; it just shows they don't care about the country they live in, and whatever happens in that country is fine by them, but I am not like that; I want a better country, which is why I get involved in anything that pertains to my country.
Government for the people.
Democracy is meant to be a government that does everything for the betterment of its citizens; the government is meant to be for the people. Everything that is meant to make people's lives better and easier is what the government is meant to be doing, but, surprisingly, it is the other way around.
Now, when we look at democracy as a whole, it seems to be the best form of government because, at least in principle, it gives power to the people and creates room for accountability. But in reality, over the years, it hasn’t truly favored the general populace. Instead, it appears to only serve a few individuals who already have influence, wealth, or power. The very system that is supposed to uplift the masses has been used by elites who twist it for their own interests.
Policies are often drafted not with the poor man in mind but to suit those already sitting at the top. The roads, hospitals, schools, and opportunities that democracy promises to provide for all are either lacking or only accessible to a privileged few. And so, while democracy remains the most accepted system across the world, one cannot ignore its failures in practice. The dream is beautiful, but the reality has not been as kind.
Yet, even with its shortcomings, democracy is still the best option we have, why? because it gives us the chance to participate in the government and our voice are heard. The alternatives, whether dictatorship or absolute monarchy, strip away freedom, silence the voice of the people, and make accountability nearly impossible. At least in democracy, there is room to challenge, to speak, to hope, and to fight for change. That space for participation and improvement is what keeps it alive and what makes it better than any other form of governance.
Democracy is not perfect, and it may never be. It has failed many and continues to fall short of its promises. But the truth is, no other system offers the same level of freedom, voice, and hope for reform. The challenge before us is not to abandon democracy but to demand better from it, to hold leaders accountable, and to ensure that it works not just for the few but for the many. After all, if it is truly a government of the people, by the people, and for the people, then it must begin to reflect that in action not just in words.
Thanks for reading. My name is Fashtioluwa.
