a. what is a legitimate government b. Outline any four features of legitimacy

Answer Details

(a) Meaning of a legitimate government

A legitimate government is one that has come to power in accordance with the accepted rules, laws and constitutional procedures of a state, and which is therefore recognised and accepted by the majority of the people as the rightful authority entitled to make and enforce laws. Its right to rule flows from the consent of the governed, usually expressed through a free and fair electoral process, and it exercises power lawfully rather than by force or fraud.

(b) Four features of legitimacy

1. Consent of the governed: The government enjoys the willing acceptance and support of the majority of citizens, who regard its authority as rightful and binding on them.
2. Constitutionality: The government is formed and operates in strict conformity with the provisions of the constitution and the established laws of the land.
3. Free and fair elections: Those in power attain office through a credible electoral process in which citizens freely choose their leaders, giving the government a genuine popular mandate.
4. Legal exercise of power: The authority of the government is derived from and limited by law, so that its actions are lawful, and obedience to it is regarded as a moral and civic duty rather than mere submission to force.