WAEC Government Past Questions & Answers - Page 253

1,261.

Public opinion is defined as the

A.

aggregate views of the people

B.

sentiments of opposition parties

C.

consensus of the mass media

D.

reaction of pressure groups

Correct answer is A

Public opinion consists of the desires, wants and thinking of the majority of the people. It is the collective opinion of the people of a society or state on an issue or problem. This concept came about through the process of urbanization and other political and social forces.

1,262.

Which of the following is a function of pressure groups?

A.

Represent and protect the rich

B.

Protect the interest of government

C.

Serve as avenue for political victimization

D.

Provide forum for the ventilation of grievances

Correct answer is D

Pressure groups are a vital link between the government and the governed. They keep governments more responsive to the wishes of the community, especially in between elections. 2. Pressure groups are able to express the views of minority groups in the community who might not otherwise receive a hearing.

1,263.

An election held to fill a vacant post in the legislature due to the death or resignation of a member is called

A.

run - off election

B.

electoral college

C.

bye - election

D.

primary elections

Correct answer is C

Bye- election;  is an election used to fill an office that has become vacant between general elections

1,264.

Politics is practically demonstrated during

A.

electioneering campaigns

B.

parliamentary debates

C.

formation of political parties

D.

inter-party consultative meetings

Correct answer is A

Electioneering campaign;  refers to the act of campaigning to influence the result of an election in favor of a particular candidate or party.

1,265.

The following are the aims of an election except that

A.

a group sticks on to power

B.

there is accountability of the leaders

C.

there is a smooth change of government

D.

the people determine who rules

Correct answer is A

A country cannot be truly democratic until its citizens have the opportunity to choose their representatives through periodic elections that are free and fair. Critical development efforts cannot succeed without a legitimate and democratically elected government that is responsive and accountable to its citizens.