(a) State three types of elections (b) explain four purposes elections serve in a democratic state

Answer Details

(a) Types of elections

1. General election - held at regular intervals to elect representatives into all elective offices at the same time.
2. By-election - held to fill a single vacant seat that has fallen vacant through death, resignation or removal of a member.
3. Primary election - conducted within a political party to select its candidates for a forthcoming general election.

(Others include run-off and referendum.)

(b) Purposes elections serve in a democratic state

1. Selection of leaders: Elections provide a peaceful and orderly means of choosing those who will govern.
2. Conferment of legitimacy: A government that wins a free and fair election enjoys the mandate and acceptance of the people.
3. Political participation: Elections give citizens the opportunity to take part in the governance of their country.
4. Ensuring accountability: Through periodic elections, the people can reward good leaders by re-electing them and punish bad ones by voting them out.