Question 4
Identify five major which features if present and functioning are indicatin of a strong democracy in a state.
Observation
This was a popular question. The performance of candidates that attempted the question was good as they understood the demands of the question and demonstrated good mastery of the subject. They performed credibly well and scored high marks. However, candidates are to provide the following points in order to score good marks.
- Independent electoral management body
- Free, fair and periodic elections
- Respect for and protection of Fundamental Human Rights
- Inclusiveness of all sectors of society
- Freedom of expression/vibrant public opinion
- Right to information
- Freedom of association
- Functioning House of Representatives/Legislature
- Strong democratic institutions eg Ombudsman
- Free and vibrant media
- Active civil society
- Multi-party system
- Respect for Rule of Law
- Adult franchise with equal value/ Adult Suffrage
- Constitutionalism/Respect for the provisions of the Constitution
- Respect for minority rights
- Existence of separation of powers/checks and balances
- An independent judiciary
- Existence of effective pressure groups/interest groups
- Popular participation by citizens in government
- Majority rule
- The existence of transparency and accountability in governance
- Tolerance of opposing views
- Tolerance of opposition parties
- Fixed tenure of office
- Provision of procedure for constitutional amendment