Chapter : 1. Democracy In The Contemporary World
Portugal
In the 20th century, many previously undemocratic countries made successful advances towards democracy. But it is a pity that even in some big countries, people could not express their opinion freely for a long time. One such country is Portugal in Europe.
Following are some features that make Portugal under Salazar (1926-1934) a case of non-democracy.
1. After overthrowing the democratic government in Portugal in 1926, he ordered the killing of all opposition leaders.
2. His government started a ‘Concentration Camp’ on a barren island to punish those who were involved in working class protests.
3. Spies of the secret police were placed at public places - cafes, railway stations, offices, universities, hospitals, post offices etc.
4. Because of the fear of arrest, the citizens could not dare to discuss politics freely.
5. Even, when after 1945, he allowed the opposition to contest elections, only they were given one month to campaign which was not enough to mobilise the public opinion in their favour.
6. No opposition was allowed after elections.
7. The elections were held irregularly every four or seven years.
Because of the above repressive measures, the opposition could not ever win even a single seat.
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