In a republic sovereignty is vested in the

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks where sovereignty (supreme political authority) lies in a republic.

Step 2: Explain the concept A republic is a state in which power is held by the people and their elected representatives, not by a hereditary monarch. In a republic, the head of state (usually a president) is elected, and the ultimate source of authority is the citizens. Sovereignty means the supreme power to make laws and govern a state. In a republic, this power ultimately comes from the people, who exercise it through voting. The voters are called the electorate.

Step 3: Evaluate the options

• A. Armed forces: They defend the state and are under civilian control in a republic. They do not hold sovereignty.
• B. Electorate: The citizens who vote. They give power to leaders and can remove them, so sovereignty rests with them.
• C. Government: The government exercises power on behalf of the people. It is the agent, not the source of sovereignty.
• D. Party leader: This is an internal party position with no sovereign power.
• E. President: The president is the head of state, but gets authority from the people and is limited by the constitution.

Step 4: Answer Sovereignty in a republic is vested in the electorate, which is option B.

Tip: Remember the phrase "Republic = Rule by the people." Compare it with a monarchy, where sovereignty lies in the king or queen. When you see "sovereignty" in a republic or democracy question, think people, citizens, electorate.