Do you have any research on Thai's politics? Yingluck shinawatra is elected by the Thai people, but Suthep Thaugsuba just protested and wanted to be prime minister without election. So yeah, everybody can have their voice, but anything resolved? NO!The essence of democracy is to let everyone voice their opinions~ whether it leads to the society for worse or better is fully on the hand of the peoples. At least you could have 5 year cycle for restarting, that means perpetual hope for the better future and reform.
If you have authoritatian state~ what would you have? You live in lottery ticket that span for your whole life. Get a good leader with determination to improve and manage your country well~ you hit the jackpot. Get a badass leader like Mugabe and Kim Jong Il, you live your life like a sh*t. How long have North Korean wait? Maybe for the lifetime of Kim Jong Il they have hoped for a change/reform like China. Alas! His son was no more better! Better wait for another 60 years to reform.
Because the elective government is not authoritative and have no power. When common people have power? Not through speaking with their voice, and the elites do not hear your voice or they pretend not, but through revolution. Oh, the western media call it communism, and it is not good
Do not use "at least" words; this is the lamest excuse I have seen. Can your "at least" really settle the problem? No. Then what your "at least" can do?