The 57 Key Elements and Principles of Democracy: Political parties (6)
By Abbati Bako, Political Strategy and Communications Consultant/Global Political Analyst
*Political PartiesThe Cornerstone of Democracy:
The vital role of political parties in the grand tapestry of democratic governance, political parties are an indispensable thread, weaving together the fabric of representative democracy. As one of the 57 key elements of fundamental principles of democracy, political parties play a pivotal role in shaping the democratic process, facilitating citizen participation, and ensuring that the will of the people is represented. Hence, in some of the Democratic Nations independence candidates are given the opportunity to contest election. In Nigeria that chance or opportunity is not available yet.
*The Functions of Political Parties:
Political parties perform a multitude of functions that are essential to the health and vitality of democratic systems. These include:
1. Interest Aggregation:
Political parties serve as vehicles for aggregating and articulating the interests of diverse groups and individuals, ensuring that their voices are heard and their concerns addressed.
2. Candidate Selection:
Parties select and nominate candidates for public office, providing voters with a range of choices and ensuring that elected officials are accountable to their constituents. That is what is called internal democracy. And again, internal democracy is one of the fundamental elements and principles of democracy.
3. Policy Formulation:
Political parties develop and promote policies that reflect the values and interests of their members and supporters, providing a framework for governance and decision-making. Positive policies and ideology is fundamental to any political party in constitutional democracy.
4. Mobilization and Engagement:
Political parties mobilize citizens to participate in the democratic process, encouraging them to vote, join parties, and engage in public debate and discourse. Political parties used to have strategy and planning on how to win elections and again they set up institutions with a view to train their party members the ideology of the party. For example, the “Institute of Democrats” and Institute of Republicans in America. Also, “Labour Institute” or Conservative Institute” in the United Kingdom. Also, in Nigeria there is Democratic Institute (PDP) and Progressive Institute (APC).
*The Importance of Strong Political Parties:
Strong, vibrant political parties are essential for democratic governance. They:
1. Ensure Accountability:
Political parties hold elected officials accountable to their constituents, preventing the abuse of power and ensuring that the government remains responsive to the needs of citizens.
2. Foster Transparency:
Parties promote transparency in government, providing citizens with access to information and ensuring that decision-making processes are open and inclusive.
3. Encourage Participation:
Political parties encourage citizen participation in the democratic process, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility among voters.
4. Promote Stability:
Strong political parties provide stability and continuity in government, ensuring that policies and programs are implemented consistently and effectively for the benefits of the citizens.
5. Challenges Facing Political Parties:
*Despite their importance, political parties face numerous challenges in modern democracies.
These include:
1. Declining Membership:
Many parties are experiencing declining membership and engagement, eroding their ability to represent the interests of citizens.
2. Polarization:
The increasing polarization of politics has led to the fragmentation of parties, making it more difficult for them to build consensus and govern effectively.
3. Corruption:
Corruption and the influence of special interest groups can undermine the integrity of parties, eroding public trust and confidence.
*Conclusion:
In conclusion, political parties are a cornerstone of democratic governance, playing a vital role in shaping the democratic process, facilitating citizen participation, and ensuring that the will of the people is represented. As one of the 57 key elements of fundamental principles of democracy, strong, vibrant political parties are essential for promoting accountability, transparency, participation, and stability in democratic systems.
Abbati Bako,bsis,Alumni UK’s European University, the University of Kent @Canterbury and Students’ Mentor @Kent University and PhD,.Researcher on Globalization Policy @Skyline University Kano and Treasurer Kano Chamber of Commerce, Nigeria.
