Why do so many leaders become autocrats?

People in power must continually evaluate their management style, writes Mohamed Saeed.

Former president of Zimbabwe Robert Mugabe, the first elected leader who ruled for many decades, did not fulfil the desires of his people for a life of dignity, human rights and social justice.

His autocratic style of leadership led to gross violations of human rights and financial mismanagement that eventually resulted in faction fighting, economic fail

ure, an increase in unemployment, increased poverty and the collapse of the currency.

Zimbabweans’ hopes for a better life did not materialise, leading to his ousting by Emmerson Mnangagwa.

This begs the question: why do great helmsman end up betraying their people by becoming tyrannical rulers?

Over the years, I have noticed that not only do some political leaders become oppressive, but even community and religious leaders eventually suffer with a monocratic approach.

Why do effective and good leaders, who start off with good intentions in the beginning, become failures? Is it because power corrupts absolutely, a fear of losing the warm seat, lack of personal integrity, personal egos, knows all the answers, or just enjoying the power to suppress?

Leaders need to consciously and continually evaluate their management style. They also need to be lifelong learners and learn to connect with people.

Moreover, organisations need to build succession planning and accountability into contracts.