Legitimacy
The word legitimacy is coined from the latin word
legitimus which means according to law. Therefore it is defined as lawful and
constitutional claims to power. It is also said to be the recognition and
acceptance by the citizen the right of their ruler or leader to govern them. In
a legitimate government, obedience is not based on fear of sanctions but on
loyalty to the ruler and the state.
Factors that determine legitimacy
1 1. Free
and fair elections: Elections is the most common and generally acceptable means
of installing a democratic government in power. If the election is free and
fair, the government will receive the people mandate to rule
2 2. Mass
or Popular Participation: The higher the levels of political participation
enjoyed by the citizen in a state, the greater the recognition and acceptance
the government will receive.
3 3.Good
Government: When a government provides the basic needs of the people such as
good roads, water, security and so on, the government will be recognized by the
people.
4 4. Good
Leadership: A leader that posses good qualities and characteristics will be
supported and recognized by his people.
5 5. Economic
Development: The level of economic development and industrialization determines
how the people will support and accept the government.
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