The best way to keep the military at bay from interfering in politics is by ensuring

Analyze the question

The question asks for the best way to keep the military out of politics. This is about civil-military relations and why coups happen.

Explain the concept

Military interventions in politics (such as Nigeria's coups in 1966, 1975, 1983 and 1985) were usually justified by the soldiers with the same complaints: corruption, bad leadership, economic hardship, insecurity and electoral malpractice. When civilian government performs badly, the military finds an excuse, and sometimes public support, to take over. So the lasting solution is to remove the reasons for intervention.

Evaluate the options

• A. High pay rise every year: This may improve welfare, but it does not address the root cause. Well-paid militaries have still staged coups, and it is unsustainable.
• B. Their inclusion in government: This brings the military directly into politics, which defeats the purpose. It also undermines civilian supremacy.
• C. Good governance: Accountability, rule of law, free and fair elections, economic development and security remove the justification for intervention. It also builds public support for civilian rule, so a coup would be resisted. This is the best long-term answer.
• D. Effective control of their day-to-day operations: Civilian oversight is useful, but micromanaging operations is not the point of civilian control. It deals with the military's internal affairs and not the causes of intervention. It could also breed resentment.

Answer

The correct option is C. good governance.

Exam tip: In Government questions on "the best way to prevent" coups, military rule or instability, look for the option that addresses the root cause (good governance, democracy, rule of law) rather than a short-term fix like pay or control.