Why did the Roman people give Gaius Marius command in the war against Jugurtha?

The Roman people granted Gaius Marius command in the war against Jugurtha primarily due to widespread dissatisfaction with the aristocratic leadership of the Roman Republic. The Senate’s conduct of the war was characterized by perceived incompetence and corruption, leading to a significant loss of public confidence.12

Marius, who was not an aristocrat, capitalized on this sentiment after returning to Rome in 108 BCE. He publicly exaggerated the failures of his former commander, Quintus Metellus, in handling the guerrilla tactics employed by Jugurtha.3

Supported by the equites and anti-aristocratic tribunes, Marius successfully sought the consulship for 107 BCE. Following his election, the Roman people passed a popular bill that specifically appointed him to succeed Metellus and take charge of the African command. His popularity was further bolstered by his status as an outsider to the traditional ruling class and his reputation for possessing significant military talent.34