Self-government is a form of governance in which the citizens of a country or region have the right to make decisions about their own affairs. AUTONOMY, which has 8 letters, is the state of being self-governing and independent. Homerule, also with 8 letters, is the power of a local government to make decisions and laws without interference from a higher authority. Together, AUTONOMY and homerule are two key components of self-government.