(a) What is a manifesto? (b) Outline five factors that determine the electoral success of a political party.

Answer Details

(a) Meaning of a manifesto

A manifesto is a published statement of the aims, principles, programmes and policies of a political party, which it presents to the electorate during an election campaign. It is a document in which the party outlines what it intends to do for the people if voted into power, serving as a kind of promise or contract with the electorate and as a basis for judging the party's performance later.

(b) Five factors that determine the electoral success of a political party

1. Attractiveness of the party manifesto: A party with a realistic, appealing and people-oriented programme is likely to win the confidence of voters.
2. Quality of the candidates: The character, competence, popularity and integrity of the party's candidates influence how many votes the party attracts.
3. Financial strength of the party: Adequate funds enable a party to organise, campaign widely and mobilise supporters effectively.
4. Effective party organisation: A well-structured party with strong grass-roots organisation and discipline is better able to reach and mobilise voters.
5. Support of interest groups and the media: Backing from powerful interest groups and favourable media coverage boost a party's chances.
6. Past record and performance: A party's previous achievements in government (or credible promise where it is new) affects voters' trust and support.