Government 2, WASSCE (SC), 2016

Question 4

 Highlight any five roles of minority parties in a multi-party democracy.

Observation

This was a popular question and the candidates that answered the question did very well. They understood the demands of the question and scored good marks. However, some of the candidates scored low marks by skimpy answers without further explanations. The candidates wrote some of the following points as answers to the question:

  1. Provide avenues for alternative government if the ruling party fails to meet the aspirations of the people;
  2. Protect the interest of minority groups in the country;
  3. Help to promote unity and tolerance in the midst of diversity;
  4. Keep the government on its toes to ensure democratic governance;
  5. Help to prevent violation of fundamental human right;
  6. Offer useful suggestions and ideas for the formulation and implementation of government policies;
  7. Contribute to parliamentary debates and the passage of bills;
  8. Minority party members serve on various parliamentary committees to ensure smooth administration of the country;
  9. They assist in national consensus building, unity and integrity;
  10. Organize press conference to assess the performance of the ruling party and issues relating to national interest;
  11. In times of national crises, the minority and the majority exhibits the sense of loyalty and patriotism;
  12. Protect the constitution and rule of law.