It is often said, “Power corrupts, and absolute power corrupts absolutely.” History has repeatedly shown that without effective checks and balances, governments can become dictatorial, unaccountable, and prone to enacting laws that favour a select few. This is why an effective opposition is indispensable in any democracy.
In a democratic system, the concentration of absolute power in the hands of one party or leader can undermine freedoms, justice, and governance. This is particularly relevant in Sikkim, where the absence of a strong, united opposition risks turning democratic processes into a mere facade of accountability. A robust allied opposition is crucial for safeguarding democracy, promoting good governance, and ensuring the will of the people is upheld.
When a single party holds unchecked power, it risks becoming authoritarian, making decisions that benefit only a few while ignoring the larger public interest. Without a strong opposition, arbitrary governance flourishes, and policies are implemented without proper scrutiny. In Sikkim, as in any democratic state, this can lead to the deterioration of constitutional values and the erosion of people’s rights and freedoms.
A strong opposition is essential for several reasons:
1. It holds the government accountable and prevents it from becoming arbitrary in the exercise of its powers and authority.
2. A weak and fragmented opposition risks becoming passive, allowing the majority party to act without restraint, which could pave the way for authoritarianism and dictatorship.
3. The absence of effective opposition endangers the freedoms and rights of citizens, undermines the Rule of Law, and erodes democratic principles.
4. A healthy and constructive opposition counters abuses of power, holds the ruling party accountable, and promotes transparency, all without obstructing the smooth functioning of governance.
Unchecked governments often suppress dissent, curtail freedoms, and prioritize the interests of those loyal to them. One of the first targets of authoritarian regimes is the free press. Dictators routinely stifle the media, silence criticism, and control public discourse. They also dismantle independent bodies that could challenge their authority, further consolidating their grip on power.
In a healthy democracy, citizens must believe they have both the right and the power to choose their leaders and to remove them when necessary. Without this belief, people may be forced to resort to violent measures to bring about change. History provides stark examples of this. Take, for instance, the French Revolution. King Louis XVI’s absolute rule led to immense social and economic inequality. With no peaceful means to challenge the monarchy, the people eventually revolted, resulting in widespread bloodshed and turmoil. Similarly, centuries of autocratic rule under the Russian Tsars culminated in the violent Russian Revolution of 1917. Both revolutions were driven by a lack of political accountability and peaceful alternatives for reform.
A democracy functions best when there is a robust opposition to challenge and hold the ruling government accountable. The presence of such an opposition ensures that power does not go unchecked and that decisions reflect the will of the people. For example, when a majority of the British people voted to leave the European Union (Brexit), the government initially resisted implementing the result. However, due to pressure from opposition parties and public demand, the government was eventually compelled to follow through with the decision.
This underscores the critical role of opposition parties in safeguarding democracy. They provide alternatives, demand transparency, and advocate for the rights and desires of the people. Without them, even democratically elected governments risk becoming authoritarian.
Thus, all democratic forces—opposition parties, free media, and independent institutions—must unite to prevent any one party or leader from accumulating unchecked power. History warns us of the dangers of absolute power, and it is the responsibility of democratic institutions to ensure that no government is ever beyond accountability. Only through unity and vigilance can democracy endure and thrive.
A fragmented opposition, divided by personal or political rivalries, weakens its ability to provide an effective counterweight to the ruling party. This creates an environment where democratic principles are threatened, and governance becomes one-sided. However, a unified and coordinated opposition can prevent the excesses of power by holding the government accountable and offering alternative policies and solutions that reflect the needs of the people.
In Sikkim’s unique socio-political context, where regional identity and aspirations play a significant role, the opposition must work together to protect the interests of all communities. They must advocate for transparency, fairness, and policies that promote long-term development while preventing any group or interest from dominating the political landscape.
Moreover, the people of Sikkim deserve a political system that empowers them with real choices. An effective opposition strengthens democracy by ensuring that elections are not a mere formality but a meaningful opportunity for change. Through constructive debate, oversight, and legislative action, a strong allied opposition can prevent the misuse of power, promote justice, and maintain the balance of power essential to a thriving democracy.
For Sikkim’s democracy to flourish, political parties across the opposition spectrum must set aside differences and unite in their common responsibility to protect the rights and aspirations of the people. Only through such unity can the state’s democratic institutions remain resilient in the face of concentrated power.
(Views are personal)