Basically the people do. Athenian democracy involved all citizens and even high ranking foreigners that lived in Athens and freed slaves could have influence in politics. The Athenians didn't have any political parties as such as but once in a while a talented speaker would appear and dominate the political system. The best known and most fondestly remembered was Pericles who was perhaps one of the best political leaders ever since he stayed in the office of general for 17 years running and was practically a benevolent dictator who paved the way for true democracy. Hope this helps a bit.