Observation

This was a popular question and was attempted by most of the candidates. The performance of the candidates who attempted it was good as they really understood its demands. However, some candidates deprived themselves good marks by mere listing of points. The candidates were expected to provide the following answers to the question.

1. Serve as a credible alternative to the ruling government.
2. Serve as a watchdog of public interest/checks and balances.
3. Promote and stimulate debates in parliament.
4. Expose the weaknesses of the ruling party.
5. Serve as training ground for future leaders.
6. Articulate and promote the interest of their members.
7. Offer alternatives to decisions, policies and programmes of the ruling party.
8. Ensure the conduct of free and fair elections.
9. They ensure that democratic tenets are adhered to e.g accountability, transparency and good governance.
10. They ensure that laws passed serve/promote national interest.
11. They help to defend the rights and interests of the minority.
12. They help to promote political education and awareness.