Democracy is not a panacea to all the ills of society. Transition to democracy is not a magical transformation of an underdeveloped nation into a world superpower. In fact history have shown that the fall of authoritarian regimes and the following transition to democracy will often fail unless certain conditions are satisfied.
A successful transition to democracy therefore requires that basic democratic structures are in place and perform accordingly in the interaction between them. It is this process where democratic structures are put in their appropriate places and their proper interaction becomes well establish that we call institutionalization of democracy.
Elections must be held regularly and play its role as a process by which the people appoint those who will represent them. These elections, where the people as the ultimate source of sovereignty cast their votes, must be free and fair. Only a government elected through a free and fair election have the legitimacy to govern the people.
The elected government must be able to represent the people and respond accordingly to their needs. A well functioning government must be able to translate people’s needs into legislation and action. Both the executive and legislative branch of the government are required to play a well-balanced role in the process of governing with the welfare of its citizens as the primary goal.
The political parties must be more than election participants. They are not mere vehicles for a few ambitious leaders in the road to power. Political parties are required to have strong roots in and maintain a close link with the society.
In a democratic setting, citizens are not the means but an end. They are the ultimate guardians who must be eternally vigilance against threats to democracy. Only an enlightened citizenry who knows their rights and responsibilities can fulfill this role.
Institutionalization of Democracy is more than about setting up the correct procedures and protocols. It is about giving substance to democracy. It is about crafting enlightened democracy. Without it, democracy will soon be dead and buried.