DEMOCRACY

                                                                                       DEMOCRACY

Democracy is a system of government in which people are allowed to choose leaders by voting. It is defined as a form of government in which the political power belongs to the people. Democracy is popularly known as government of the people, by the people and for the people. 

                                                          FEATURES OF DEMOCRACY

1. PERIODIC ELECTIONS:  This gives room for people to elect a government of their own choice.

    

2. FRANCHISE: This means all those who are eligible to vote are allowed to vote and be voted for.

    

3. POLITICAL PARTIES: Where democracy is practiced, there is more than one political party with different individuals  competing for power.

    

4. SECRET BALLOT: Elections are usually done by secret ballot, this means others should not know thw candidate that one is voting for.

    

5. FREE ASSOCIATION AND GROUPS: People should be able to choose their candidates or support political parties without fear, intimidation or harrasment.

                                                          

6. UNIVERSAL ADULT SUFFRAGE: This implies that adult citizens above 18 years of age should have the right to vote and be voted during elections.

                                                      IMPORTANCE OF DEMOCRACY

    

   1. Free choice of leaders: The leaders are given: The people are given power and opportunity to elect a leader of their choice.

   2. Prevents mis-use of power: Democracy does not allow for misuse of power because power is concentrated in one person's hand.

   3. Operation of the rule of law: This means that the government are to act in accordance to the provision of the constitution.

   4. Equality of individuals: Where there is democracy, there is freedom for everyone. The rights and equqality of the people are protected.