Reasons for Political Participation and the Role of Pressure Groups in Promoting Political Participation

Reasons for Political Participation:

(i) It will offer the citizens the opportunity to participate in the process of public decision making in a state.

(ii) It will help to check the excesses of the government.

(iii) It will ensure accountability and responsibility of political office holders.

(iv) Political participation helps to open up employment opportunities.

(v) It offers an opportunity for some individuals to actualize their dream (political office holders).

(vi) To make a positive impact, solve societal problems in order to promote socio-economic development (National development).

(vii) Political participation will accord any government legitimacy and promote political stability.

(viii) It will also enhance peaceful, orderly succession to power.

(viii) Political participation strengthens democracy and encourages the development of a political system and political institutions in the state.

(ix) It will encourage good governance and administration. As a bad government can be voted out.

The Role of Pressure Groups in Promoting Political Participation:

(i) Pressure groups check the abuse of power of political leaders and state officials.

(ii) It can mobilize the interest of the people in politics through the creation of political awareness.

(iii) Through political enlightenment, Pressure Groups develop positive values in the societyThe term society is derived from the Latin word 'socius' meaning friendship or companionship. Society is a community, nation or group of people who share the same traditions, institutions, rules and... More, promote democratic values and create awareness of important national issues.

(iv) It monitors election.

(v) It strengthens harmonious co-existence among the different ethnic groups, mediates and helps to resolve conflicts in the state.

(vi) It promotes good governance, accountability and responsibility of the rulers.

(vii) It is the voice of the voiceless and defender of the vulnerable in society. It protects the fundamental human rights of the citizens.

(viii) It helps to alleviate poverty through job creation, youth empowerment and skill acquisition. 

(ix) It is an agent of social change.

(x) It serves as a link between the government and the people for mass mobilization.