NECO 2002 Government · Question 3

The means and conditions for the establishment of a representative government do NOT include

Options

  1. A.establishment fundamental freedom
  2. B.independence of the judiciary
  3. C.observance of arbitrary laws
  4. D.recognition of the opposition
  5. E.rule of law

Answer: C. observance of arbitrary laws

Explanation written with AI and checked against the answer key

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks which option is NOT a means or condition for establishing a representative government. A representative government is one where citizens elect leaders to act on their behalf, and where those leaders are accountable to the people.

Step 2: Recall the concept For a representative government to work, these conditions are needed:

  • Fundamental human rights and freedoms, such as freedom of speech, association and the press, so citizens can participate and criticize.
  • Independent judiciary, so courts can protect rights and check abuse of power.
  • Rule of law, meaning everyone, including those in power, is subject to the law.
  • Recognition of the opposition, because dissenting voices keep the government accountable.
  • Free and fair elections, a periodic and regular choice of leaders.

Step 3: Evaluate each option

  • A. Establishment of fundamental freedom: This is a condition, since people must be free to vote, speak and organize.
  • B. Independence of the judiciary: This is a condition, because it protects citizens' rights and checks the other arms of government.
  • C. Observance of arbitrary laws: This is NOT a condition. Arbitrary laws are made or applied by whim, without fairness or due process. They are characteristic of dictatorship and tyranny and go against democratic principles.
  • D. Recognition of the opposition: This is a condition, because it ensures accountability and competing views.
  • E. Rule of law: This is a condition, since it ensures law is supreme and not the will of individuals.

Step 4: Answer Option C is the one that does not belong. Rule of law is the opposite of arbitrary rule, so observing arbitrary laws cannot support representative government.

Exam tip: In "does NOT include" questions, look for the option that contradicts democratic ideas. Words like "arbitrary," "absolute," "unlimited," or "suppression" usually mark the odd one out.

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