POPULAR PARTICIPATION

Popular participation is the willingness and active involvement of the people in the conduct of the affairs of the state at various levels. Popular participation is important in democracy and it allows for effective operation and stability of the political system.

Factors that can Promote Popular Participation

1. Good governance.
2. Supremacy of the constitution.
3. Respect for human rights.
4. Mass education.
5. Enlightenment campaign.
6. Freedom of press.
7. Application of rule of law.
8. Free and fair election.

Reasons why people do not participate in politics

1. Unfulfilled political promises: People refuse to participate in public affairs due to the failure or inability of the leaders to fulfill their promises.
2. Illiteracy: The illiterates in the society see political activities as the birthright of the educated elite. Those who cannot read and write cannot be allowed to contest for any elective position. Therefore, they do not see any need to be actively involved in public affairs.
3. Violence During Election: Many people stay from popular participation because of the frequent violence that characterized most elections. They prefer to sit at home to avoid being victims of violence.
4. Poverty: Money plays a major role in any political system. The cost of electioneering campaign is high. Many good candidates cannot afford to meet this financial obligation hence they remain at the level of mere voters.
5. Cultural/Religious Beliefs: Some religions and culture do not allow women to take active part in public affairs. They see it as the duty of men.
6. Fear of Intimidation: Most people believe that the influential in the society could easily use their position to intimidate anybody they perceive as a viable opposition.
7. Disability: Those who are physically challenged may not be able to participate actively in politics even when they have the interest.
8. Military Intervention: Frequent intervention of military in the administration of the state can create lack of interest in political affairs.
9. Election Rigging: People refuse to participate in politics because they believe their vote will not count. Hence, they prefer to stay back and watch from far.

EVALUATION

1. Define popular participation.
2. State five factors that can hinder popular participation.

GENERAL EVALUATION

1. What are the factors that can promote popular participation?
2. Mention the skills involved in youth empowerment
3. What is employment?
4. Explain the importance of employment in the society
5. List five functions of the executive organ of government

WEEKEND ASSIGNMENT

SECTION A

Instruction: From the options lettered A-D, choose the letter that is most appropriate for the following questions. Answer all the questions.

1. The process by which citizens are involved in the conduct of the affairs of the society is known as A. political campaign B. popular participation C. political knowledge   D popular opinion
2. One of the keys to a successful democracy is A. popular participation B. military intervention  C. presidential promises D. political apathy
3. All are reasons for non-participation in politics except A. religion B. economic factor  C. illiteracy                       D. enlightenment
4. A citizen can contribute to the development of his country through all the following ways except A. voting          B. demonstrations       C. violence      D. joining a political party
5. Electorate means A. electoral system     B. electoral material    C. voter    D. franchise

SECTION B

1. State five advantages of citizens’ participation in political affairs.
2. Explain three factors that can promote popular participation

See also

INTRODUCTION TO DATA PROCESSING

GOVERNMENT REGULATION OF BUSINESS

EMPLOYER / EMPLOYEE RELATIONSHIP | DUTIES, RIGHTS

SALE OF GOODS ACT / HIRE PURCHASE ACT

TYPES OF AGENTS And AUCTIONEER