Representative democracy is characterized by

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks for a defining characteristic of representative (indirect) democracy.

Step 2: Explain the concept In a representative democracy, citizens do not make laws directly. Instead, they elect people to represent them in the legislature (for example, the National Assembly in Nigeria). For this system to work, certain things must be in place:

• Regular, free and fair elections
• A proper register of eligible voters
• Universal adult suffrage
• Competing political parties
• Accountability of representatives to the electorate

Step 3: Evaluate the options

• A. Free election and proper register of voters. Correct. Elections are the means by which representatives are chosen. A credible voters' register ensures that only eligible citizens vote and that the process is fair.
• B. A politically educated elite. Incorrect. Democracy does not require rule by an educated elite. That idea is closer to elitism or aristocracy.
• C. Representation of the poor only. Incorrect. Representative democracy represents all citizens, rich and poor, not one class.
• D. Rule of the interest groups. Incorrect. Interest groups influence government but do not rule. Rule by a particular group goes against democratic principles.

Step 4: Answer The correct option is A.

Step 5: Exam tip For questions on democracy, think "election, participation, and accountability." Any option that points to one narrow group ruling (elite, poor only, interest groups) is usually a distractor. Look for the option that mentions elections, voting, or the franchise.