WAEC 2016 Government · Question 15

One of the features of an absolute monarch is that the ruler

Options

  1. A.is elected by the electorate
  2. B.has a definite tenure of office
  3. C.is elected by the representatives of the people
  4. D.wields the supreme power in a state

Answer: D. wields the supreme power in a state

Explanation written with AI and checked against the answer key

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks for a feature of an absolute monarch, which is a ruler in an absolute monarchy.

Step 2: Explain the concept An absolute monarchy is a system of government in which a king, queen, or emperor holds supreme (unlimited) power. The monarch is not restricted by a constitution, a parliament, or any other body. Key features include:

  • Power is concentrated in one person
  • The ruler usually gains power by heredity (birth or family line), not by election
  • The ruler stays in office for life (no fixed tenure)
  • The ruler's word is often law

Step 3: Evaluate each option

  • A. is elected by the electorate: Wrong. Election by the public belongs to democracies, not absolute monarchies.
  • B. has a definite tenure of office: Wrong. Absolute monarchs usually rule for life, so there is no fixed term.
  • C. is elected by the representatives of the people: Wrong. This describes indirect election, such as an electoral college. It is not how a monarch gets power.
  • D. wields the supreme power in a state: Correct. This is the defining feature of an absolute monarch, who holds final authority over lawmaking, execution, and justice.

Step 4: Answer The correct option is D.

💡 Exam Tip: Link the word "absolute" with "supreme/unlimited power." If you see options about elections or fixed terms, they usually describe democratic or republican systems, so you can eliminate them quickly. In contrast, a constitutional monarch has limited powers.

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