The context refers to 'indecision gripping a nation ...... who can throw democracy or free thinking overboard'. This indicates a need for a strict and powerful leader for that nation.
"Autocratic" suits the context as it means a ruler with absolute power. In a democracy, a ruler with absolute power will not do as being a democracy implies being ruled by elected representatives of the whole population. It implies diluted power. Whereas, 'autocracy' implies absolute power. Thus, "option B" fulfills the required criterion and is the correct answer.
The others do not mean 'absolute power'.
"Optimistic" means hopeful.
"Eccentric" means unconventional.
"Energetic" means sowing vitality.
Option B is the correct answer.