Unelected

The adjective 'unelected' describes an individual or group who has assumed a position of power or authority without being chosen through a democratic election process. This can occur in various contexts, from governmental roles like those filled through appointment or inheritance, to leadership positions within organizations, such as a board member named by the current board. The term highlights a lack of popular mandate, implying a different form of legitimacy or, in some cases, a potential for a power imbalance due to the absence of accountability to the electorate or membership. The degree to which this impacts public trust, power, or how the role is filled relies on various factors like the type of organization or government.

Unelected meaning with examples

• Following the coup, the military junta established an unelected council to govern the nation. They implemented new policies, but without any public input, creating widespread resentment. The council's lack of legitimacy was constantly questioned by the citizens, prompting protests and unrest.
• The CEO of the multinational corporation handpicked his successor, creating an unelected leader. While they possessed the skills, some stakeholders expressed concerns about the absence of democratic representation which influenced company performance and shareholder confidence.
• During times of national emergency, some government bodies may appoint unelected officials, such as an 'emergency response coordinator' to oversee critical operations. This may occur to prevent the normal bureaucracy of the government. However, such actions are met with criticism.
• In some traditional monarchies, the sovereign ascends to the throne through inheritance, making them an unelected head of state. The citizens may be beholden to their decisions, as a monarch is not accountable to the people.
• The local neighborhood association elected its board members, but their president was appointed as an unelected leader by the previous board, generating immediate controversy over the process and the lack of citizen representation.