Theory question 105
Political Parties and Party SystemsSection A (answer four questions in all, choosing any two from each section)
What are the merits and demerits of a multi-party system of government?
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Merits: wide choice of candidates and programmes for voters; wider political participation and education; prevents one-party dictatorship; different interests and opinions are represented; competition improves party organisation and government performance; strong opposition checks the government.
Demerits: may produce weak coalition governments (in parliamentary systems); difficult to hold one party responsible; can encourage ethnic and sectional parties; divides the nation; expensive; difficult to form governments; many small parties confuse voters; may lead to political instability.
Balance merits and demerits.