FACULTY OF SCIENCE ADMINISTRATIVE AND POLICY STUDIES

DIPLOMA IN PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION

(N4AM1102G)

INTRODUCTION TO POLITICAL SCIENCE (PAD120)

ASSIGNMENT TOPIC:

COMPARISON BETWEEN ABSOLUTE MONARCHY AND MILITARY RULE

PREPARED FOR:

MADAM HAZARIAH YAIS BINTI RAZALI

PREPARED BY:

1. MUHAMMAD HAFIY IRSYAD BIN HILMI 2022662206

2. MUHAMMAD AKMAL ASHRAF BIN MOHD AZHAR 2022853224
3. NURINSYIRAH FAIZILIA BINTI MOHD FADZLY 2022679278
4. SITI ARIFAH BINTI SANIMAN 2022858508

DATE OF SUBMISSION:

7 JUNE 2023
 TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.0 INTRODUCTION................................................................................................................... 1
2.O TYPES OF AUTOCRACY.................................................................................................... 3
2.1 AUTHORITARIANISM......................................................................................................3
2.1.1 CHARACTERISTICS OF AN AUTHORITARIAN GOVERNMENT.................... 3
2.2 ABSOLUTE MONARCHY................................................................................................ 5
2.2.1 CHARACTERISTIC OF AN ABSOLUTE MONARCHY....................................... 6
2.3 MILITARY RULE............................................................................................................... 8
2.4.1 CHARACTERISTIC OF OLIGARCHY..................................................................14
2.5 TOTALITARIAN...............................................................................................................15
2.5.1 CHARACTERISTICS OF TOTALITARIANISM................................................... 15
3.0 COMPARISON BETWEEN ABSOLUTE MONARCHY AND MILITARY RULE..... 17
3.1 APPOINTMENT............................................................................................................... 17
3.2 LAW MAKING PROCESS............................................................................................... 19
3.3 ADMINISTRATION......................................................................................................... 21
4.0 CONCLUSION...................................................................................................................... 24
REFERENCES.............................................................................................................................26
1.0 INTRODUCTION

Autocracy can be defined as a form of government in which one person possesses an

unlimited power (PAD 120 Manual, 2023). Some other words for autocracy are dictatorship and
despotism. The autocrat’s power basically covers all political, economic, social and military
power. The word autocracy is derived from two ancient Greek words, “Auto” and “Kratos”.
“Kratos'' means strength and power, while “Autos” means self
(https://byjus.com/social-science/autocratic-meaning/). This means that the autocracy is the form
of state where power is concentrated in the hands of one individual, the autocrat. Autocrat
leaders make choices or decisions based on their own beliefs and do not involve others for their
suggestion or advice (https://youtu.be/npEDorc38UI). Thus, the people living in countries with
autocratic governments have no say in determining the nation’s laws.

Historically, many monarchs ruled autocratically but eventually their power diminished
with the introduction of constitutions giving the people the power to make decisions for
themselves by electing the bodies of government (PAD 120 Manual, 2023). Moreover, autocracy
can also be compared with oligarchy, which is government by a small number of persons
characterized by their wealth, education or religion, and democracy, which is ruled by a majority
of the people. Absolute monarchy such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman and Brunei are the
main historical forms of autocracy. As for example, a well known historical example of
autocracy is the leadership by Adolf Hitler in Germany from 1933-1945. Adolf took control of
every decision made and the people had no choice other than just follow his orders. Nowadays,
absolute monarchy such as Oman and Eswatini are the main modern day forms of autocracy.

There are few characteristics of autocracy in which rulers frequently come to power by
force or violence (PAD 120 Manual, 2023). The people’s involvement is very limited whereby
the citizens are forced to accept the leader even if the people do not choose the leader like a
coercive power. This is because the leader is afraid that their ruler positions will be challenged
with people’s participation in politics. Secondly, the main aim is to keep themselves in power
and maintaining the monopoly of power (PAD 120 Manual, 2023). Any decision made is under

1
the responsibility of the leader because the power is only held by them. This makes the citizens
not have to be involved as they do not even care about the people’s voices. It also focuses on
total national solidarity, strict discipline and one leadership only. Last but not least, autocracy
generally does not respect individual rights when such rights interfere with the power or policy
goal of the state. Basically, they are so cruel to the people because they only think about their
decisions, and the decision made by the ruler is because of political pinterest and not because of
the people. Dissenting voices tend to be ignored. There are five types of autocracy which will be
discussed on the next page, which are Authoritarianism, Absolute Monarchy, Military Rule,
Oligarchy and Totalitarian.

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2.O TYPES OF AUTOCRACY

2.1 AUTHORITARIANISM

According to an article by Natasha Lindstaedt.(

https://www.britannica.com/topic/authoritarianism). Authoritarianism is the unthinking
submission to authority and the suppression of personal freedom of opinion and action in politics
and government. Governmental systems that are authoritarian do not grant their citizens civil
liberties or political rights and lack a formal structure for transferring executive power. One
person or a small elite holds the majority of the power, and their decisions are made without
consideration for the wishes of the general populace. There are many different types of
authoritarian governance, despite the fact that the term authoritarianism is frequently used to
describe any non-democratic style of government.

2.1.1 CHARACTERISTICS OF AN AUTHORITARIAN GOVERNMENT

Listed below are characteristics of authoritarianism posted in an article by Susan

Sherwood. (https://www.theclassroom.com/characterizes-authoritarian-government-9043.html).
One defining feature of authoritarianism is limited political freedoms. Authoritarian governments
maintain power by limiting citizens' participation in politics, aggressively discouraging political
interest, crushing opposition, and ignoring basic human rights. For instance, China's leadership
has long been criticized for human rights violations, such as restricting religious expression,
labor union formation, and free speech. These regimes create barriers to citizen involvement,
perpetuate fear, and prioritize control over individual freedoms and societal progress.

Another characteristic is the people’s view. During times of national crises, authoritarian
governments routinely take power and frequently get initial public support. As was the case in
Argentina in 1946 when Juan Peron was elected president, this ascent to power frequently occurs
concurrently with the overthrow of an unpopular administration. With Peron's victory, a

3
military-led government that had been viewed as unconcerned with the needs of the working
class was replaced. Initially, citizens may readily accept authoritarian rule as long as the
government fulfills its declared aims and does not excessively restrict individual liberties. The
government can give up on its initial goals and instead turn its attention to keeping control of the
country if the regime's support wanes.

The third characteristic is the end game goal of authoritarian regimes. Authoritarian
governments often seize power with specific action plans aimed at addressing issues such as
corruption or economic challenges, garnering initial support from citizens who hope to see
progress. However, dissent is typically met with violence, and authoritarian regimes prioritize
strategies over consistent philosophies. This distinguishes regimes like Fidel Castro's communist
Cuba, driven by an ideology of equality and state control, from Adolf Hitler's totalitarian
Germany, built on aggressive nationalism.

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2.2 ABSOLUTE MONARCHY

Absolute monarchy is a single individual—typically a king or queen—holds total,

autocratic power. In absolute monarchy, the throne normally passes via a reigning family, with
the succession of power being hereditary (https://www.thoughtco.com/absolute-monarchy
-definition-and-examples-5111327). Absolute monarchy, which emerged during the Middle
Ages, predominated in much of western Europe by the 16th century.

Other European nations under the authority of absolute monarchs included England,
Spain, Prussia, and Austria, along with France, which was exemplified by King Louis XIV.
Following the French Revolution, which gave rise to the idea of popular sovereignty, or
government by the people, the prevalence of absolute monarchies dramatically decreased
(https://www.thoughtco.com/absolute-monarchy-definition-and-examples-5111327).

In an absolute monarchy, no written law, legislative, court, economic penalty, religious

practice, custom, or electoral process has the authority to challenge or restrain the ruler's
authority or acts. King Louis XIV of France, known as the "Sun King," is occasionally quoted
for having declared "I am the state," which is arguably the best depiction of the governmental
authority exercised by an absolute monarch (https://www.thoughtco.com/absolute-monarchy
-definition-and-examples-5111327).

The modern countries which still and are apply absolute monarchy in their governments
are Brunei, Eswatini, Oman, Saudi Arabia and Vatican City
(https://www.thoughtco.com/absolute-monarchy-definition-and-examples-5111327),

5
Saudi Arabia

Diagram 1: Saudi Arabia King, King Salman Bin Abdul Aziz

Saudi Arabia is an absolute monarchy, and the King is bound by Shari'a (Islamic law) and
the Qur'an, per the Basic Law of Saudi Arabia, which was established by Royal Decree in 1992
(Robbers, 2007). The Qur'an and the Sunnah as a whole—the traditions of the Islamic prophet
Muhammad—are acknowledged as the Kingdom's constitution, but Saudi Arabia has never
promulgated a written modern constitution, making it the only Arab country without a national
election since its founding.

2.2.1 CHARACTERISTIC OF AN ABSOLUTE MONARCHY

There are several characteristics of an absolute monarchy government and one of them is
complete political dominance (https://www.lifepersona.com/10-main-characteristics
-of-the-absolute-monarchy). Absolute monarchs were distinguished by the fact that they had
complete political control, which meant that their decisions and actions were not bound by laws
or any other restrictions. They could create new laws and taxes, and judge those who broke them,
without any input from the public. The king was responsible for enforcing all rules and
regulations, but was not subject to them himself, allowing him to change or ignore them as he
saw fit.
Next, the characteristic of an absolute monarchy is statutory society
(https://www.lifepersona.com/10-main-characteristics-of-the-absolute-monarchy). Absolute

6
monarchies developed in societies with significant inequality among its members. People were
born into a social class that determined their place in life and their responsibilities, privileges,
and limitations. It was difficult for anyone to change their social standing. The higher classes had
privileges and access to government positions, while the lower classes remained subject to the
king's power.
Furthermore, the characteristic of an absolute monarchy is military control
(https://www.lifepersona.com/10-main-characteristics-of-the-absolute-monarchy). The monarch
held command over both his army and all aspects of politics. In order to keep the king's
command in place and the monarchy stable, this armed wing was in charge. These military units
served as the king's personal guard and were highly specialized. In order to ensure the territory's
sovereignty, they were devoted exclusively to the management of the populace and the frontiers.
Lastly, the characteristic of an absolute monarchy is succession of their authority through
hereditary or marital (https://www.lifepersona.com/10-main-characteristics-of-the-
absolute-monarchy). There are no democratic systems that permit the election of any ruler or
representation under an absolute monarchy. As a result, the monarchy itself uses internal
processes to directly appoint the next rulers. This process typically entails a hereditary or marital
succession, in which the throne is bestowed upon the sons of kings. Therefore, it is typical in
these situations for the same family to maintain control of the government for several
generations.

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2.3 MILITARY RULE

Diagram 2 : The generals ruled Brazil for 21 years.

A military dictatorship is a form of government where the political power resides with the
military (Manual PAD 120) and ruled by the armed forces, who do not come into power through
election, but by forces of arms. It may be ruled by a single-high ranking military officer by a
group of high-ranking military officers, a “military-junta”. The military juntas may choose to
control a more limited range of areas, like foreign policy or national security rather than all
functions of the national government
(https://www.thoughtco.com/military-dictatorship-definition-and-examples-5091896). Military
dictatorships are notorious for human right abuses and the denial of social freedoms
(https://www.thoughtco.com/military-dictatorship-definition-and-examples-5091896). Besides,
the military leaders exercise complete control of the people and also the functions of
government.

2.3.1 CHARACTERISTICS OF MILITARY RULE

Based on past experience, a government that practiced military rule is actually the worst
kind of government any country can ever experience because the military cares more about their
personal interests than the citizens of the country. This makes the abuse of human rights as one
of the characteristics of a military rule. According to Forsythe (2000), human rights refer to the

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supposed basic right and freedoms to which all humans are entitled. As for evidence, individual
rights are violated daily in Nigeria by the police, military and other law by arresting individuals
who did not commit crime and beating helpless civilians without consideration
(https://samphina.com.ng/violation-human-rights-military-regime/). Referring to the statement,
the researchers proffers that all security outfits should be involved in the fight against human
rights abuse and there should be no favoritism in upholding the law.

Next, military government usually have no democracy because the basic features of
democracy are not in line with dictatorship, or imposition of laws, which is usually the case in a
military government (Edeh Samuel Chukwuemeka, 2020). The role of the military in democracy
is an ever relevant concern with the basic tenets which were already raised by Plato 2500 years
ago, in which democratic control should always be a two-way process between armed forces and
society. Thus, military is able to make laws and execute the same law all by themselves.
Moreover, they also perform judicial functions by making laws that declares a person whether to
be guilty or not guilty of an offence (Edeh Samuel Chukwuemeka, 2020).

Moreover, in military rule, there is always the absence of separation of powers because
the military combines the powers of the Legislature and the Executive together
(https://bscholarly.com/characteristics-military-rule/). This leads to a consolidation of power,
whereby decision-making is concentrated in the hands of a few military leaders. As a result,
individuals may have limited opportunities to participate in the political process, and civil
liberties may be restricted. However, it is important to note that military rule is often a temporary
measure, put in place to restore order and stability in times of crisis. The military government has
the authority to create and enforce laws simultaneously, without any interference from any other
branches of government, including the judiciary. This can lead to the situations where the
military operates above the law and has the final say in important decisions.

Last but not least, during military rule, the military government often suspends the
constitution and laws that provide for periodic elections. This means that the people have limited
or no say in their government and are unable to participate in the democratic process. The
military government will usually appoint its own officials to run the country and make decisions,
rather than holding free and fair elections. In light of this, the head of the military government

9
has the authority to retain their position indefinitely, with their decisions being unquestioned.
Their office can only be removed by a forceful takeover from another military entity.

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2.4 OLIGARCHY

Oligarchy may be defined as the possession and exercise of power by a few individuals
either directly, as a consequence of holding the important political offices, or indirectly, as a
consequence of controlling recruitment of officeholders and influencing their decisions (Evans,
1974, 46-76). Other than that, Oligarchy may also be defined as a form of government
characterized by the rule of a few persons or families. More specifically, the term was used by
Greek philosopher Aristotle in contrast to aristocracy, which was another term to describe rule by
a privileged few. However, to Aristotle, an aristocracy signified rule by the best members of
society, while an oligarchy was characterized by the rule of the few for corrupt and unjust
purposes (https://education.nationalgeographic.org/resource/oligarchy/).

The countries that are applying oligarchy in their governments are China and Iran.
However, Winters & Page (2009, 731-751) have described Colombia, Indonesia, Russia,
Singapore, and the United States also as oligarchies. Therefore, here is the explanation on why
some of these mentioned countries are categorized under the oligarchy government.

Russia

Diagram 3: Russian gas monopoly Gazprom head Alexer Miller, left, and head of Russian Lukoil oil company Vagit Alikperov

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 Many analysts believe that the rise of Russian oligarchs has been influenced by privately
owned international firms with headquarters in Russia after the collapse of the Soviet Union and
the privatization of the economy in December 1991. These corporations include those that
manufacture metal, natural gas, and oil. The majority of these have direct connections to the
president and other top government leaders (Scheidel, 2017, 51 & 222-223).

Iran

Diagram 4: Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei

Iran has been described as a clerical oligarchy and a theocracy. Almost all of the power is
held by clerics. The supreme authority in Iran is held by a Supreme Leader. He (there have only
been two Supreme Leaders since the position was established in 1979, both of them men)
governs the nation alongside about 2,000 clerical field agents. An Assembly of Experts
composed of 86 clerics meets once a year for a week to elect the Supreme Leader. Iran also has a
president, although the Supreme Leader is in charge of the executive branch
(https://education.nationalgeographic.org/resource/oligarchy/).

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China

Diagram 5: China's Politburo Standing Committee members line up as they meet with the press at the Great Hall of the People in
Beijing

China calls itself a communist "people's republic," yet for many years the country's
leadership has been held by a small group of people. People who were involved in the
Communist Party and the 1949 revolution, as well as those who gained wealth and influence
after China's openness to the world market in the 1980s (typically descendants of the early
revolutionaries), have all been considered members of the oligarchy. While giving the majority
of individuals relatively little authority or independence, this system has assisted the wealthy and
powerful in maintaining their hold on power (https://education.nationalgeographic.org
/resource/oligarchy/).

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2.4.1 CHARACTERISTIC OF OLIGARCHY

There are several characteristics of an oligarchic government and one of them is small
and minor groups that control power (https://mudabicara.com/en/oligarchy-political-
system-definition-kinds-and-characteristics/). Power is only possessed by a small elite group in
an oligarchic political system. This exclusive group may be based on background in the military,
fortune, education, or family. So that the allocation of their interests may take place in an optimal
and quantifiable manner, they typically own both wealth and substantial resources.

Other than that, the characteristic of oligarchy is economic gap. A social economic gap
exists in oligarchic political systems (https://mudabicara.com/en/oligarchy-political-
system-definition-kinds-and-characteristics/). Only a limited group of people have access to
economic resources. They have a financial source as a result of a relationship with authority. As
a result, the wealthy oligarchs will continue to prosper. And to make matters worse, these
oligarchs won't think twice to defend any strategy that helps them keep their fortune.

Furthermore, the characteristic of oligarchy is engagement in government

(https://mudabicara.com/en/oligarchy-political-system-definition-kinds-and-characteristics/).
Oligarchs, in addition to those who manage their wealth, hold significant power. They often
involve themselves in politics and administration to promote their shared interests. Their
ownership of capital allows them to easily obtain influence. Consequently, policies they
implement tend to prioritize the interests of the oligarchs rather than the wider population.

Last but not least, the characteristic of oligarchy is contractual relationships

(https://mudabicara.com/en/oligarchy-political-system-definition-kinds-and-characteristics/). In
a nation where the oligarchs hold the most power, political processes will always involve the
oligarchs who have the resources and money. The involvement is either direct or indirect. They
are merely advancing their own interests by being involved. As a result, their interests are not
upset and continue to be taken into account when the balance of power shifts.

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2.5 TOTALITARIAN

Totalitarianism is a type of government that, in theory, allows no individual freedom and

aims to give the state control over every element of an individual's
life.(https://www.britannica.com/topic/totalitarianism#ref348381). The term "totalitario" was
first used by Italian dictator Benito Mussolini to define the new fascist state of Italy in the early
1920s. He also added the phrase "all within the state, none outside the state, none against the
state." Totalitarian has evolved to mean absolute and tyrannical single-party rule by the start of
World War II. The Soviet Union under Joseph Stalin, Nazi Germany under Adolf Hitler, the
People's Republic of China under Mao Zedong, and North Korea under the Kim family are some
further contemporary examples of totalitarian nations.

2.5.1 CHARACTERISTICS OF TOTALITARIANISM

Totalitarian states differ from one another however they do share common characteristics.
An article by Robert Longley states the characteristics of totalitarian regimes.
(https://www.thoughtco.com/totalitarianism-definition-and-examples-5083506). Mandatory
devotion towards state ideology is one of them. Citizens are required to adhere to a single belief
system that aims to remove the corrupt old order and construct a racially pure utopia under a
mandated commitment to a state ideology. The philosophy and its charismatic leader demand
unconditional loyalty in place of traditional political ideologies. Intimidation and the persistent
prospect of jail are used to enforce obedience to authority, while surveillance acts as a constant
reminder of the invasion of privacy. Individual thought is discouraged and seen as detrimental to
the objectives of the state. Fundamental liberties, such as the right to assemble and speak out, are
restricted and punishable. As was said by Soviet dictator Joseph Stalin, “Ideas are more powerful
than guns. We would not let our enemies have guns, why should we let them have ideas?”

Totalitarian regimes also monopolize control of mass media. All kinds of mass media,
including art and literature, are completely under the authority of the state in totalitarian systems.
Due to its total control, the government is able to influence public opinion through a constant

15
stream of propaganda. This propaganda's goal is to manipulate and confuse the populace,
keeping them from realizing how hopeless their condition actually is. Totalitarian governments
try to hold onto power and suppress any dissent or awareness of opposing viewpoints by strictly
regulating the information and narratives that are distributed through the media.

Complete state control of the economy is the final stated characteristic of totalitarian
regimes. Totalitarian governments fully own and control the economy, including the capital and
the means of production, in order to further its militaristic goals. These regimes alter the
economic landscape by getting rid of the individualized economic incentives that are a
fundamental part of capitalism. Individual citizens are freed from having to think independently
and pursue their own success inside a capitalist economy under this system. Instead, they are
urged to focus all of their efforts on advancing the regime's ideological agenda, which will
increase the regime's control over all facets of society and its authority.

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3.0 COMPARISON BETWEEN ABSOLUTE MONARCHY AND
MILITARY RULE

3.1 APPOINTMENT

In absolute monarchy, the government is governed by a sovereign leader who came into
power by marriage or offspring (Rhiannon, 2017). Thus, the ruler is by then chosen not by its
people but by hereditary or marital. In the medieval period, the concept of absolute monarchy
was frequently used in their government throughout European countries such as England, Spain,
Prussia, and Austria (https://www.thoughtco.com/absolute-monarchy-definition-and-
examples-5111327).

To explain more about the ruler is chosen by hereditary, we could view on the example of
The Tudor of Kings and Queens of England, It begins with the ruling of King Henry VII
(1485-1509), followed by King Henry VIII (1509-1547), Edward VI (1547-1553), Mary I
(1553-1558) and ended with Elizabeth I (1558-1603) (https://www.twinkl.com/teaching-wiki/
kings-and-queens-of-england). It is hereditary because King Henry VIII is the son of King Henry
VII, meanwhile Edward VI, Mary I and Elizabeth I are the children of King Henry VIII.

Diagram 6: The Saudi royal family

In the modern time, absolute monarchy countries still use the concept of hereditary in
choosing their next ruler. For instance, in modern Saudi Arabia Kingdom, it started with the
reign of King Abdul Aziz (1932-1953), King Saud (1953-1964), King Faisal (1964-1975), King
Khalid (1975-1982), King Fahd (1982-2005), King Abdullah (2005-2015) and finally King

17
Salman (2015-present) (https://www.saudiembassy.net/history). King Saud, King Faisal, King
Khalid, King Fahd, King Abdullah and King Salman are all the children of King Abdul Aziz.

Meanwhile, as for military rule, When the military takes control of a country, they don't
have elections like we do to choose a leader. Instead, the person in charge can stay in their
position for as long as they want and nobody can question their decisions. The only way they can
be removed is if another group of military people take over by force. Military dictatorship could
lead to a civil war as high-ranking officials compete for power, or it could be dissolved through
democratic elections (https://www.politicsphere.com/the-differences-between-a-military-
dictatorship-and-an-absolute-monarchy/).

When a country is under military rule, there is a higher chance of future military coups or
attempted coups. This is because the military leaders often compete with each other for power
and resources. Some military regimes try to prevent this competition by sharing power equally
among all branches of the military, while others try to eliminate potential rivals through
monitoring and removal of personnel within the military and government
(https://bscholarly.com/characteristics-military-rule/). For example, this already happened in
Nigeria during 1975. The coup was initiated due to the discontent of lower-ranking military
officials with the perceived lack of advancements made by General Yakubu Gowon in
transitioning the nation towards a democratic system. Colonel Joseph Nanven Garba played a
crucial role in ensuring that the coup was executed without any violence. As a result of the coup,
Gowon was removed from power and replaced by Brigadier Murtala Mohammed
(https://dbpedia.org/page/1975_Nigerian_coup_d'%C3%A9tat).

Diagram 7:From left, Yakubu Gowon, Murtala Mohammed & Joseph Nanven Garba

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3.2 LAW MAKING PROCESS

First and foremost, absolute monarchy is a form of government in which a single

person—usually a king or queen—holds absolute, autocratic power (Longley, 2021). In an
absolute monarchy, the throne normally passes via a ruling family, with the succession of power
being hereditary. When we talk about absolute monarchy in this modern age, most countries that
use this concept of government are usually Islam nations. This means the law-making process
itself is usually based on Shariah Islam. Shari’ah refers to the body of Islamic law. For example,
Saudi Arabia is an Islamic state, its judicial system is based on Islamic law (Shari’ah) for both
criminal and civil cases. At the top of the legal system is the King, who acts as the final court of
appeal and as a source of pardon. Other than that, the other country that also follows Islamic
Shariah Law is Brunei. Brunei’s legal system is based on British common law, with a parallel
Syariah law system for Muslims, which supersedes the common law system in areas such as
family and property law (https://unimelb.libguides.com).

Diagram 8 : From left, Hassanal Bolkiah: Sultan of Brunei and Mohammed bin Salman: Sultan of Arab Saudi

Apart from that, Military rule is the political regime in which the military as an
organization holds a preponderance of power. In the military rule, the law-making process for
example in Nigeria, Lawmaking is the role of Parliament at the center and the Regional
Legislature in each area under the Parliamentary system, as it was under the Republican
Constitution of 1963. Parliament was made up of the President, a Senate, and a House of
Representatives, while each Regional Legislature was made up of a Governor, a President, and a
House of Representatives. The President or the Governor's role as the titular head of government

19
was strictly limited, as he was expected to give his assent to any bill regularly passed by the two
houses of the appropriate legislature. The Lower House (the House of Representatives in the
center of the House of Assembly in each area) holding the people's elected representatives was
by far the stronger and more powerful of the two houses of each legislature
(https://papers.ssrn.com).

Other than that in Myanmar, constitutions, parliament-enacted laws, customary law, and
English common law are all sources of law in Myanmar. When there is no local legislation
governing a particular topic before the courts, English common law norms developed and
adopted in Myanmar case law during the British occupation are applied. Furthermore, in the
absence of any applicable law, judges are given the discretion to decide the subject in line with
justice, equity, and good conscience. The Myanmar Naingngan Pyantan (Myanmar Gazette)
publishes any law, rule, regulation, or bylaw passed by the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw and signed or
deemed to have been signed by the president. The Myanmar Ministry of Information's News and
Periodicals Enterprise (NPE) publishes the Gazette. Among all decided cases from the superior
courts, some are chosen by the conjoint selection board, which consists of judges from the
Supreme Court of the Union, the Deputy Attorney General, and the Director-General from the
Union Attorney General's Office, to be published in the Supreme Court of the Union's annual law
report. Cases decided by the Union's Supreme Court (https://www.nyulawglobal.org).

Diagram 9 : Military Parade in Myanmar

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3.3 ADMINISTRATION

In an absolute monarchy, like in a dictatorship, the absolute monarch's ruling power and
actions cannot be challenged or constrained by any written law, legislative, court, economic
sanction, religion, custom, or election process. Perhaps the finest depiction of an absolute
monarch's administrative power is frequently credited to King Louis XIV of France, the "Sun
King," who supposedly proclaimed, "I am the state." Common people in an absolute monarchy
are denied natural rights and have only a few limited privileges bestowed by the monarch. The
practice of abstinence from any religion that is not sanctioned by the king is considered a major
felony. People have no say in the administration or the direction of the country. Monarchs issue
all laws, which often serve solely their own interests. Complaints or protests against the monarch
are considered treason and are punished by torture or death (https://www.thoughtco.com). For
example, in Vatican city, the Holy See is a monarchical-sacerdotal state with the Pope as the
"king" and senior members of the church hierarchy as the governing body. The Pope is elected
by the College of Cardinals and holds supreme executive, legislative, and judicial power over the
Vatican City and the Roman Catholic Church. The Roman Curia, a complex structure of official
agencies, assists in administering power. The Holy See is recognized under international law and
engages in diplomatic relations worldwide. It operates as an absolute monarchy ruling according
to the Apostolic Constitution of 1967. The head of government is the secretary of state, and the
legal system combines canon law for church matters and Italian law for external judicial matters.
There are no political parties, and all cardinals under 80 have voting rights in church-related
issues. The Swiss Guard ensures the Pope's personal safety, while the defense is the
responsibility of Italy. There are no taxes or customs duties in Vatican City, and Vatican
employees enjoy certain financial allowances. The Holy See is a member of various international
organizations and sometimes maintains observer status, actively participating in the United
Nations and having diplomatic relations with the European Union
(https://www.nationsencyclopedia.com).

21
 Diagram 10 : The "Sun" King Louis XIV, Of France, with his “Brilliant Court,” 1664

Diagram 11 : Vatican city

Meanwhile in military rule or military government is a concept which involves the

administration of a territory by an occupying power. This administration includes the exercise of
executive, legislative, and judicial authority. According to international law, a territory is
considered occupied when it is under the control of hostile armed forces. Military government
becomes necessary when the legitimate government is unable to carry out its functions
effectively. It does not matter whether the administration over an enemy's territory is military,
civil, or a combination of both (https://www.britannica.com). For example, in Nigerian historical
view it starts with the first military regime in 1966, led by Major Chukwuma Kaduna Nzeogwu,
resulting in the deaths of prominent politicians. General Aguiyi Ironsi took power but was
overthrown and killed in a counter-coup. Colonel Yakubu Gowon then assumed leadership until
he was ousted in another coup in 1975 by General Murtala Mohammed. Mohammed was later
assassinated in an attempted coup, and General Olusegun Obasanjo became the Head of State.
Obasanjo eventually handed over power to President Shehu Shagari in 1979. In 1983, a coup led
by General Mohammed Buhari ended civilian government, followed by General Ibrahim

22
Babangida taking over in 1985. There were subsequent unsuccessful coup attempts in 1985 and
1990. Babangida retired in 1993, establishing an interim government under Chief Ernest
Shonekan, which was later dismissed by General Abacha. After Abacha's death in 1998, General
Abdulsalam Abubakar succeeded him and eventually handed over power to a democratically
elected president in 1999. Other than that, the factors that have historically led to military
interventions in Nigerian politics. These factors include uncertain leadership changes, the
politicization of the army, nepotism, tribalism, and favoritism, regional conflicts, economic
mismanagement, corruption, mishandling of national exercises, lack of free and fair elections,
prolonged stay in office by leaders, and the cumulative effect of bad administrations. Moreover,
the need for Nigeria to address these issues and build strong institutions promoting transparency,
accountability, and good governance to maintain stability and prevent future disruptions.
(https://stoplearn.com) .

Diagram 12 : Military rule in Nigeria

23
4.0 CONCLUSION

Absolute monarchy has its advantages and disadvantages, and can be a simple and
effective form of administration, but it also poses the risk of someone with harmful intentions
causing significant damage to their country and beyond. It is just one type of government that
may suit the needs of a diverse population, and for the sake of the country, governance must be
impeccable.While an absolute monarch may have a great deal of power and fame, it can also
create a culture of complacency and resistance to change. When the leader is beloved, it can be
difficult for people to question their decisions or suggest alternative approaches. As a result,
internal changes may be slow to materialize. Besides, absolute monarchy involves a leader not
chosen by the people and their capabilities are unknown that may lead to unfavorable
consequences. Nonetheless, it is noteworthy that in certain situations, monarchs can provide a
stable and consistent leadership to a nation. Furthermore, they often have a group of advisors and
a governance system in place that ensures efficient leadership. To conclude, whether a monarchy
is an effective form of government or not is contingent on the specific circumstances and the
proficiency of the monarch.

As for military rule, it may involve both violent tactics and attempts to gain consent from
the government and national communities in some countries. However, military leaders may also
disregard the rule of law and enforce their own rules as what has been mentioned before. The
disadvantages of military rule can include human rights abuses, political instability and a lack of
accountability. However, some argue that it is necessary in certain situations to maintain order
and protect citizens.It is crucial for governments to prioritize the safety and well-being of their
citizens and respect their fundamental rights and freedoms. Overall, military rule is a complex
and sensitive topic that requires careful consideration and balancing of individual rights and the
greater good of society.

Government structures are complex issues that require a thorough understanding of the
history, culture and social context of a country. In general, democracies and other forms of
representative government are often considered the most effective and just systems of
government, as they give citizens a voice and a say in how their country is run. However, some
countries may choose to implement other systems, such as military governments, for various

24
reasons. Moreover, it is often considered vital for societies to maintain a system of checks and
balances to avoid a concentration of power in any one entity. This can include an independent
judiciary, the presence of a free press and a robust civil society. Ultimately, it is up to the citizens
of each country to determine what kind of government best suits their needs and values.

25
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