The vote of the people is the most powerful thing on this planet. I know most of you will say "what about guns? force?" but the vote (or will) of the people is more powerful.
Votes means nothing, the distance to the top is to big, it is impossible to keep the leaders in check.
Still the consent and economical support, based upon eiher fear or ignorance, is the source of the power of government. When the individuals, though by their leaders to be subjects, withdraw their support, the state quickly falls apart.
Numerous examples from our time. For instance in Ukraine. When the individuals residing in that country saw to what extent Viktor Yanukovych was willing to use deadly force to keep his position, he was ousted. Why is Assad still in reign? Because he has support, although he is a tyrant.