A political party can contest and win a widely accepted election if it has

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks what a political party needs to contest and win an election that is widely accepted, meaning one seen as free, fair, and credible by the public, the opposition, and observers.

Step 2: Explain the concept In Government, a party's strength and legitimacy come from its membership base. A broad-based party draws support from many ethnic groups, regions, religions, and social classes. This gives it:

• Votes from many parts of the country
• National legitimacy, so the result is not seen as sectional
• Acceptance of victory, because the win reflects the people's will

Step 3: Evaluate each option

• A. The ability to rig elections: Rigging makes an election illegitimate and rejected, so it is the opposite of a widely accepted election. ❌
• B. Intolerant attitude to oppositions: Intolerance causes conflict and undermines democracy. ❌
• C. A broad-based membership: This gives genuine, nationwide support and a credible victory. ✅
• D. The support of very wealthy politicians: Money can help a campaign, but it does not guarantee acceptance, and it often leads to godfatherism and undue influence. ❌

Step 4: Answer The correct option is C. a broad-based membership.

💡 Exam tip: In Government questions about elections, eliminate options with negative words or practices such as rigging, intolerance, and violence. The answer is usually the one that reflects fairness, inclusiveness, or popular support.