Power in democracy by the pillars of democracy is the whole point. Power to the Parliament to oppose the king, Power to the President to oppose the Military, Power to the King to oppose the Prime Minister.
That is in the longest democracy empire state out there.
Most of the time it is both, like President ordering carpet bombing and then denouncing the killing of civilians.
Power to make the lives of many a misery is afforded to the rich and powerful in all democracies.
Ancient democracies had slaves and somewhat reduced number of citizens, just so you know.