Meaning and Types of Electoral System | Characteristics of Electoral System | Advantages and Disadvantages of Electoral System

ELECTORAL SYSTEM OR ELECTORAL PROCESS 

An electoral system is also known as voting process. It is a set of rules and regulations that determine how elections and referendums are conducted. The whole system includes parties registration, voter registration, political campaign, accreditations, voting and declaration of results and dispute resolution.

TYPES OF ELECTORAL SYSTEM 

1. Simple majority system

2. Absolute majority system

3. Second ballot system/run-off system

4. Alternative voting system

5. Proportional representation system

6. Ballot or voting system

7. Direct and Indirect electoral systems

CHARACTERISTICS OF ELECTORAL SYSTEM

1. It must be an independent and impartial electoral body.

2. It must be conducted regular or periodic elections as stated in the constitution.

3. It must be universal adult suffrage. That’s, only qualified adult citizens should exercise their right of voting.

4. Voting must be conducted without fear of molestation, intimidation and victimization.

5. It must represent every interest group in the society.

6. The registration of voters must be review periodically.

7. It must provide election materials such as ballot boxes, ballot papers, ink pad, polling booths, etc.

8. The people must be educate about their rights, elections and the political system of their country.

9. It must be a secret balloting.

10. Method of nominating candidates for election must be acceptable.

11. Elections must be periodic.

12. Independent Judiciary must handle election petitions without fear or favor.

ADVANTAGES OF ELECTORAL SYSTEMS 

1. It is an independent and impartial electoral body.

2. It gives equal opportunity to qualified candidates.

3. It gives legitimate power to rule.

4. It is a communication link between the government and the people.

5. It enlightens the populace.

6. It gives control over government machinery.

7. It strengthens national unity.

8. It makes candidates or political parties accountable.

DISADVANTAGES OF ELECTORAL SYSTEMS 

1. It is expensive.

2. Illiterates can misuse their votes.

3. It gives room vote buying and selling.

4. Voting may not be objective.

5. Possible danger of electing incompetent people into power.

QUESTION

1. What is electoral system?

2. List five types of electoral system.

3. state five characteristics of electoral system.

4. mention five advantages of electoral system.

5. outline five disadvantages of electoral system.