In chapter 2 of "The Ant Hills of the Savannah," the themes of opposition, conflict, protest, fear, tyranny, dictatorship, and cruel use of power are depicted through the interactions between the characters and the oppressive government in the fictional African country of Kangan.
Opposition and conflict are evident in the strained relationships between the ruling elite, particularly the dictator, His Excellency, and the common people of Kangan. The protagonist, Chris Oriko, is a government official who begins to question the oppressive regime and its policies, leading to conflicts with his superiors and colleagues.
Protest and fear are prevalent throughout the chapter as the citizens of Kangan live in constant fear of reprisal from the government for speaking out against injustices. The people are afraid to voice their dissent openly, leading to a sense of helplessness and frustration.
Tyranny and dictatorship are embodied in the character of His Excellency, who rules with an iron fist and suppresses any form of opposition or dissent. His cruel use of power is demonstrated through the violent crackdown on protests and the manipulation of the media to control the narrative and maintain his grip on power.
Overall, the ant hills of the Savannah serve as a metaphor for the hierarchical power structures in Kangan, where the ruling elite oppress and exploit the common people for their own gain. The themes of opposition, conflict, protest, fear, tyranny, dictatorship, and cruel use of power are interwoven throughout the chapter, highlighting the oppressive nature of the government and the struggles of the people to resist and fight for their rights.