A government is said to be legitimate if it

A government is said to be legitimate if it has the people's mandate to rule. Legitimacy refers to the belief and acceptance by the people that their government has the right to rule and make decisions on their behalf. This mandate is often expressed through free and fair elections, where citizens are able to choose their leaders and representatives. A legitimate government is also expected to respect the rule of law, protect individual rights and freedoms, and ensure that its actions are not oppressive. In addition, a legitimate government is accountable to the people and accepts criticisms and feedback from citizens. Providing social services for the people is important, but it is not the only factor that determines the legitimacy of a government. Overall, legitimacy is a critical aspect of democratic governance, as it ensures that the government is responsive to the needs and aspirations of its citizens and acts in their best interest.