(a)Who is a citizen? (b) Outline four responsibilities of a citizen to the state

Answer Details

(a) Who is a citizen?

A citizen is a legally recognised member of a state who enjoys full rights and privileges and owes allegiance and obligations to that state. Citizenship may be acquired by birth, by descent, by registration or by naturalisation. A citizen, unlike an alien, has full political rights such as the right to vote and to be voted for.

(b) Responsibilities of a citizen to the state

1. Obedience to the laws of the land and respect for constituted authority.
2. Payment of taxes, rates and other lawful dues to enable the state provide services.
3. Loyalty and defence of the country: being patriotic and ready to defend the nation against internal and external enemies.
4. Participation in civic duties such as voting during elections, serving on juries and rendering national service.