Theory question 102
Democracy and Representative GovernmentSection A
(a) Explain the term representative government.
(b) What conditions are essential for the existence of a representative government?
Show the model answer
Model answer
(a) A system in which citizens choose, through periodic elections, people who make decisions and govern on their behalf and who are accountable to them
(b) Periodic, free and fair elections
Universal adult suffrage
Independent electoral commission
More than one political party / freedom to choose candidates
Free press and freedom of expression
Independent judiciary and rule of law
Constitutionalism; respect for fundamental rights
Politically aware electorate
Up-to-date voters' register and well-defined constituencies
Explanation
Define, then explain at least five conditions.