Evaluate the impact of military rule in two African countries.

The question requires that candidates make an appraisal of the impact of military rule in two African countries, weighing up its strengths and limitations. The evaluation of impact may extend beyond the timeframe but must be clearly linked to the issue raised in the question. Candidates may offer equal coverage of positive and negative impacts or they may prioritize their evaluation of one of them, but both aspects must be a feature of the response. Candidates may refer to positive impacts such as the restoration of internal peace; the eviction of unpopular governments or leaders and the creation of stability, which might foster economic growth, trade and investment. Negative impacts such as reductions in freedom and civil rights, elimination of democratic institutions, increased ethnic divisions and corruption may be referred to. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.