Authoritarian regimes utilize electoral processes to project an image of legitimacy while suppressing genuine democratic practices. They may manipulate election laws, control media narratives, and limit opposition participation to ensure favorable outcomes. By crafting a façade of representative governance, these regimes bolster their grip on power, often using intimidation or fraud to dissuade dissent. Electoral results are typically staged to maintain the appearance of public support, reinforcing the regime's narrative and discouraging calls for change, ultimately safeguarding their authoritarian rule.