The Political Science Students Association in one of the higher institutions of learning has invited your school to participate in a debate on the topic: Ci...

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Debate: "Civil Rule is Preferable to Military Rule" (Speaking For the Motion)

Mr Chairman, distinguished panel of judges, accurate timekeeper, my worthy opponents, ladies and gentlemen. I stand before this august gathering to speak in support of the motion that civil rule is preferable to military rule. I shall show, beyond doubt, that government of the people, by the people and for the people is far superior to government at the point of the gun.

My first point, ladies and gentlemen, is that civil rule guarantees the fundamental rights and freedoms of the people. Under a democracy, citizens enjoy freedom of speech, of the press, of association and of worship. They can criticise their leaders without fear. Under military rule, on the other hand, such freedoms are suspended, dissent is crushed, and the people live in fear of the soldier's boot.

Secondly, civil rule is founded on the rule of law. In a democracy, everyone, ruler and ruled alike, is subject to the constitution and the courts. Military rule, by contrast, rests on decrees imposed by force, and power is exercised at the whim of a few armed men who are answerable to no one.

Thirdly, civil rule allows the people to choose and to change their leaders through periodic and peaceful elections. If a government fails, the ballot box removes it. Military governments seize power unlawfully and can be removed only by another violent coup, plunging the nation into instability and bloodshed.

My opponents may argue that the military brings discipline and quick decisions. I concede that soldiers may act swiftly, but swift action without accountability is a dangerous thing. A wrong decision taken quickly can ruin a nation, and there is no lawful way to reverse it. It is far better to be governed by law, however slowly, than by force, however swiftly.

Mr Chairman, distinguished judges, in the protection of rights, in the rule of law and in the freedom to choose our leaders, civil rule stands head and shoulders above military rule. I therefore urge this noble house to support the motion that civil rule is indeed preferable to military rule.

Thank you.