In political theory, “politics of fear” refers to the deliberate production and amplification of fear to secure power, shape opinion and justify the measures. Those forced to abdicate their civic role reconsider and say, “Politics no concern me.” Thus, indifference becomes the first layer. Political fear is largely manufactured, crafted and transmitted through headlines, rumour and threats. As the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) releases the timetable for next year’s elections, fear-based politics risks hardening into the system’s default setting. If fear remains a most reliable political instrument, each election will become another expression of a paper-thin democracy that evaporates at the polling unit.

Source: GNN Liberia March 06, 2026 13:25 UTC