Question

State the various functions political parties perform in a democracy.

Answer 1

The various functions political parties perform in a democracy are:

• Candidates are put forward by political parties to contest in elections. These candidates may be chosen by the top leaders, or by members of the party.
• Parties put forward their policies and programes for voters to chose from them.
• Political parties play a major role in making laws for the country. No law can become a bill unless majority parties support it.
• Political parties form and run governments.
• Parties that lose election play the role of opposition to the party in power.
• Parties shape public opinion.
• Political parties form an important link between the government and the people. It is easy for the public to approach their local leader than a government official. The local leader has to listen to the public demand, otherwise, he will lose the next election.