[Date]
CPD1501 Assignment 2
Semester 2 2024
(623079) - DUE 2
September 2024
QUESTIONS WITH COMPLETE ANSWERS
, CPD1501 Assignment 2 Semester 2 2024 (623079) - DUE 2 September 2024
Question 1
How can citizens hold public officials accountable in a democratic society?
Provide examples of accountability mechanisms in South Africa. (25)
In a democratic society, citizens can hold public officials accountable through
various mechanisms designed to ensure transparency, responsibility, and
responsiveness. These mechanisms can be both formal, such as legal frameworks
and institutional checks, and informal, such as public participation and media
scrutiny. Here are several key mechanisms of accountability in South Africa:
1. Elections
Description: Regular, free, and fair elections allow citizens to choose their
representatives and hold them accountable for their actions and policies. Through
elections, public officials can be voted out of office if they fail to meet the
expectations of the electorate.
Example: The national and provincial elections held every five years in South
Africa, most recently in 2019, allow citizens to vote for the National Assembly and
Provincial Legislatures. Local government elections, held every five years, also
provide a platform for accountability at the municipal level.
2. Judicial Review
Description: The judiciary has the power to review the actions of public officials
and government bodies to ensure they comply with the law and the Constitution.
This helps to prevent the abuse of power and protects citizens' rights.