(a) Mention five characteristics of democracy (b) State five ways by which the practice of democracy can contribute to national development
Explanation
(a) Characteristics of democracy i. Respect for fundamental human rights ii. Tolerance of varied views iii. Operation of an Impartial electoral body iv. Decentralization of powers v. Respect for the principled of rule of law vi. Freedom of association and groups vii. Popular sovereignty/majority rule viii. Possibility of changing government ix. Eligibility to hold office x. Representative government xi. Party system xii. Popular elections xiii. Periodic Elections xiv. Impartial Judiciary xv. Constitutional governance (b) Ways by which the practice of democracy can contribute to national development i. Democracy promotes transparency and accountability ii. It promotes rule of law and constitutionalism iii. it engenders peace and unity iv. Democracy makes it possible for the opposition to be heard v. It leads to employment generation vi. It encourages free choice of political leaders vii. It facilitates effective participation of citizens in governance viii. Democracy guarantees periodic elections to ensure smooth transition of government ix. Democracy allows people's participation in politics x. It allows for a smooth process of political participation
