Observation

This question was attempted by majority of the candidates and their performance in this question was tremendous. They were able to use the activities of the contemporary society to relate to factors that can lead to political apathy, the forms and subsequently, its effects, dangers and ways of discoursing political apathy.

Additional points candidates missed out are:

A. Forms of political apathy

• Refusal to criticize government policies, programmes, manifestos, activities, etc.
• Refusal to hold public office/contest elective office(s)/serve in political positions.
• Refusal of eligible voters to check their names in the voter’s register or collect their voter’s cards.
• Refusal to take oaths of allegiance.
• Unwillingness to form/join/participate in political parties or activities.
• Non involvement in political party campaigns/rallies, election monitoring, etc.
• Refusal to participate in protests/demonstrations on political issues/government officials.
• Non involvement in political debates/issues or discussions.

B. Ways of discouraging political apathy

• Good governance.
• Fulfilment of political promises and manifestos.
• Conduct of free and fair elections.
• Violence free elections/zero tolerance for political thuggery/arson.
• Equal political rights/opportunities/votes.
• Independent/non-partisan judiciary.
• Encouraging popular participation in general elections.
• Inculcating civic values.
• Establishing corrupt free and independent electoral body.
• Ensuring freedom of the press.