Robert Mugabe, King Abdullah, & the PAP? Who in the first place would bring them together under the same article? Other than the fact that they are the dominant features in their respective countries, I guess many can’t really see the a stark similiarity between them.
Let me put it this way. Robert Mugabe, King Abdullah and the People’s Action Party of Singapore embodies the patronage system in their countries.
A key feature of any politician and/or political party interested in consolidating its sphere of influence and power is the evolution of its patronage system. Robert Mugabe is finding it increasingly difficult to hold on to power and prevent dissent within his own party, Zanu-PF. This is because of a dire economic situation with inflation at 1,500% and it is expected to increase to 5,000% at the end of the year, and it is almost difficult to meet the monetary needs of his cronies and subordinates. Saudi Arabia, on the other hand, has no worries with regard to its ability to uphold the patronage system. Simply put, the huge revenues from oil production ad export keep the patronage system flowing and the country stable.
What patronage system are you talking about in Singapore, you might ask.
