WAEC Government 1999 Theory question 101

Theory question 101

Democracy and Representative Government

Section A: Elements of Government (answer five questions in all, choosing any two from Section A and any three from Section B)
(a) Define democracy.
(b) What conditions are necessary for its successful operation?

Show the model answer
Model answer

(a) Democracy is government of the people, by the people and for the people, in which citizens rule directly or through freely elected representatives.
(b) Free, fair and periodic elections; independent electoral body; respect for the rule of law; independent judiciary; protection of fundamental rights; multi-party system and tolerance of opposition; free press; educated and politically aware electorate; good leadership; accountability and openness of government; separation of powers; a democratic culture/willingness of people to accept results; economic stability.

Explanation

Definition plus at least five conditions explained.