Theory question 105
Franchise, Elections and Electoral Systems(a) Give three reasons for holding elections in a state.
(b) Identify three factors that can disqualify a person from voting in a democracy.
Show the model answer
Model answer
(a) Any three: to choose representatives/leaders; to give legitimacy to the government; to allow peaceful change of government; to let citizens participate in governance; to make leaders accountable (vote them out); to express popular sovereignty and public opinion.
(b) Any three: being under the voting age (18 in Nigeria); insanity/unsound mind; being an alien (not a citizen); not being registered; conviction for certain crimes / serving a prison sentence; electoral offences (e.g. impersonation).
Explanation
Compare your answer with the model answer: it lists the points a full-mark answer needs.