WAEC 2015 Government · Question 36

The primary aim of any political party is to

Options

  1. A.pressurize the government
  2. B.remain in the opposition
  3. C.control the government
  4. D.ensure fair play in business

Answer: C. control the government

Explanation written with AI and checked against the answer key

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks about the primary (main) aim of any political party. This is a basic concept in Government (Political Parties).

Step 2: Explain the concept A political party is an organized group of people who share similar political ideas and who seek to win power through elections so they can form the government and carry out their policies and programmes.

The key functions of political parties include:

  • Contesting elections
  • Forming the government if they win
  • Acting as an opposition if they lose
  • Educating and mobilizing citizens
  • Aggregating interests and presenting manifestos

The main goal that separates a political party from other groups is the capture or control of political power.

Step 3: Evaluate each option

  • A. Pressurize the government: This is the role of pressure groups (e.g., NLC, ASUU, NBA), not the primary aim of a party.
  • B. Remain in the opposition: A party may end up in opposition after losing an election, but it is not its aim. No party contests an election hoping to lose.
  • C. Control the government: This is correct. Parties exist to win elections and run the machinery of government.
  • D. Ensure fair play in business: This relates to regulatory bodies and trade or consumer associations, not parties.

Step 4: Answer The correct option is C. control the government.

Tip: Remember the difference:

  • Political party → seeks to win and control power.
  • Pressure group → seeks to influence power without taking it.

If you see "pressurize" or "influence" in an option, think pressure group. If you see "capture," "win," or "control" power, think political party.

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