This comparative study of two republics examines the conditions that determine regime survival in less developed countries. The author looks at the functioning of political élites and the strategies employed, such as ethnic mobilization, patronage and coercion, to gain and maintain control of the state. He argues that political and economic development can only be adequately advanced by the resolution of the conflict between regime survival and the satisfaction of collective needs. If these collective needs are met, equitable mass participation in the domestic political process must be guaranteed.