Question

Write the functions of political parties.

Answer 1

Instructions:
Since this is a 5 marks question, the answer should have 5 to 6 points. List down all important functions of political parties in detail.

Solution:
A political party is a group of people holding similar opinions on issues related to governance, development and society.
Functions of Political Parties -

• Contesting elections and winning power- The main function of political parties is to contest elections and win power. Most of the electoral fight happens between candidates put forward by different political parties.
• Selecting candidates and Election Campaigning- Political parties select candidates which will represent them in the elections and also conduct election campaigns in order to win public support.
• Formulating public opinion - Political parties shape the opinions of the general public. They also raise the issues concerning the general public in their day to day lives.
• Governing the country- The party or coalition of parties which wins a majority of seats form the government and governs the country. They make laws and policies for the welfare of the people.
• Sitting in the opposition- The parties which fail to become a part of government sit in the opposition. They play a very important role in keeping a check on the ruling government and also raise the issues and demands of the people.