Government SS1

Legitimacy
Legitimacy refers to the perceived or accepted authority, legality, or validity of a person, government, or
institution. It is the recognition and acceptance by individuals or a society that a particular authority has
the right to govern or make decisions. Legitimacy is the acceptance and recognition by the people of the
right of the ruler to govern.

Legitimacy often involves adherence to established laws, norms, or principles, contributing to the
credibility and support of the entity in question. In Government, legitimacy is the right and acceptance of
an authority, usually a governing law or a regime. Whereas authority denotes a specific position in an
established government, the term legitimacy denotes a system of government—wherein government
denotes "sphere of influence". An authority viewed as legitimate often has the right and justification to
exercise power.

Types of Legitimacy

Legitimacy is "a value whereby something or someone is recognized and accepted as right and proper".In
government, legitimacy has traditionally been understood as the popular acceptance and recognition by
the public of the authority of a governing régime, whereby authority has political power through consent
and mutual understandings, not coercion. The three types of political legitimacy described by German
sociologist Max Weber, in "Politics as Vocation," are traditional, charismatic, and rational-legal:

Traditional legitimacy

Traditional Legitimacy derives from societal custom and habit that emphasize the history of the authority
of tradition. Traditionalists understand this form of rule as historically accepted, hence its continuity,
because it is the way society has always been. Therefore, the institutions of traditional government
usually are historically continuous, as in monarchy and tribalism.

Charismatic legitimacy

Charismatic legitimacy derives from the ideas and personal charisma of the leader, a person whose
authoritative persona charms and psychologically dominates the people of the society to agreement with
the government's régime and rule. A charismatic government usually features weak political and
administrative institutions, because they derive authority from the persona of the leader, and usually
disappear without the leader in power. However, if the charismatic leader has a successor, a government
derived from charismatic legitimacy might continue.

Rational-legal legitimacy

Rational-legal legitimacy derives from a system of institutional procedure, wherein government

institutions establish and enforce law and order in the public interest. Therefore, it is through public trust
that the government will abide the law that confers rational-legal legitimacy.

FACTORS THAT DETERMINE LEGITIMACY.

The following are the factors that determine legitimacy:

1. Popular Participation: For a political system to be legitimate, the various interest group such as the
pressure group etc must be allowed to take part. This gives the system the required acceptance by the
populace.

2. Popular Support: The government must receive the popular support of the citizens before it becomes
legitimate in a democratic system. The party that receives the greatest support in election forms the
legitimate government.

3. Good Government: This accord legitimacy especially government that meets up their expectation of
good government.

4. Foreign Diplomacy: The foreign policies adopted by the government of a country determine the
legitimacy of other state will, according to such government.

5. Good Leadership: Legitimacy will be accorded to a leader with sterling qualities.

6. Ideology:The ability of the government to uphold the state ideology will help attain legitimacy.

7. Periodic free and fair elections.

8. Respect for Fundamental Human Rights/Rule of Law.

9. Appreciative level of socio-economic development in the state by the Government.

10. International Recognition.

11. Respect for the customs and traditions of the people.

12. Adherence to the provisions of the constitution of the state.

Importance of Legitimacy

1. Public Support:

A legitimate government enjoys higher levels of public support. Citizens are more likely to cooperate
with policies and contribute to the well-being of the nation when they perceive the government as
legitimate.

2. Policy Implementation:

Legitimacy is crucial for the successful implementation of policies. When citizens trust their
government, they are more likely to comply with regulations, pay taxes, and participate in initiatives,
facilitating effective governance.

3. Social Cohesion:
 Legitimate governments contribute to social cohesion by fostering a sense of shared identity and
purpose. When people believe in the fairness of the political system, it enhances unity and reduces social
divisions.

4. Conflict Resolution:

Legitimacy is a key factor in resolving conflicts. Governments with broad legitimacy are better
equipped to address internal disputes, as their decisions are more likely to be accepted by diverse
segments of the population.

5. International Relations:

Legitimate governments have stronger standing in the international community. Other nations are more
inclined to engage diplomatically and economically with governments that are perceived as legitimate,
enhancing global cooperation and partnerships.

Assignment

How can legitimacy help political stability

HOW CAN MILITARY GOVERNMENT ESTABLISH LEGITIMACY FOR ITS

ADMINISTRATION

Establishing legitimacy for a military government can be challenging due to the inherent differences
between military rule and civilian governance. However, here are some strategies a military government
might employ:

1. Clear Communication:

Communicate openly and transparently with the public. Clearly explain the reasons for the military
intervention, the goals of the administration, and the expected timeline for returning to civilian rule.

2. Stability and Security:

Emphasize the restoration of stability and security. Showcase the military government's ability to
maintain law and order, especially if the country has faced political unrest or instability before the
intervention.

3. Reform and Accountability:

Implement reforms that address issues that led to the military intervention. Show a commitment to good
governance, anti-corruption measures, and accountability. This can help build trust in the military's
intentions.

4. Inclusive Governance:

Establish an inclusive and representative government that involves civilians in decision-making

processes. Include experts and representatives from various sectors to demonstrate a commitment to a
broader national interest.
5. International Recognition:

Seek recognition from the international community. Engage with other nations, explaining the reasons for
the military intervention and demonstrating a commitment to democratic values and human rights.

6. Timely Transition to Civilian Rule:

Clearly outline a plan for the transition back to civilian rule. Establish a timetable for elections and
demonstrate a genuine commitment to returning power to elected civilian authorities.

7. Public Services and Welfare:

Focus on delivering essential public services and improving the welfare of the population. Demonstrating
tangible improvements in people's lives can help garner support for the military administration.

8. Listening to Public Concerns:

Actively listen to public concerns and address grievances. Establish mechanisms for citizen feedback and
participation to show responsiveness to the needs and opinions of the population.

9. Education and Information:

Educate the public about the military's role and its commitment to fostering national development. Dispel
misconceptions and work to create a positive image through accurate information dissemination.

10. Avoiding Repression:

Avoid excessive use of force or repression. Uphold human rights and ensure that citizens feel secure and
free to express their opinions within reasonable bounds.