Theory question 105
Political Parties and Party Systems(a) What is a manifesto?
(b) Outline five factors that determine the electoral success of a political party.
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Model answer
(a) A manifesto is a political party's published programme of policies and promises which it will carry out if voted into power.
(b) Any five: quality and popularity of its candidates and leaders; an appealing manifesto; good organisation and spread across the country; adequate funding; effective campaigns and use of the media; party unity and discipline; ethnic/religious/regional support base; performance if already in power; neutrality of the electoral body and security agencies (a level field); alliances with other parties and groups.
Explanation
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