game of thrones - Why is The Wall the only democracy in an otherwise Westerosi feudal monarchy? (Minor S05E02 & Book 3 spoilers)

From S05E02 and A Storm of Swords:

In this episode, a new Lord Commander of The Night's Watch is appointed after the death of Jeor Mormont. But to my surprise, the appointment takes place not from the direct orders of the King (Tommen or Stannis, your pick) but through a truly democratic process. Yes, elections, where anybody can stand for the post & only the members of the Night's Watch gets to vote.

So, the question, why is the Night's Watch the only democracy in an otherwise feudal Westeros? Army is the last place you would expect to find a true democracy.

Is it just a happenstance because

Stannis Baratheon has claimed the Wall

or is the practice followed through the ages?

Comments

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