Waec Government Question And Answer 2017

Navigating the WAEC Government examination requires a solid understanding of key concepts and the ability to apply them to various scenarios. Let's delve into sample questions and answers from the 2017 WAEC Government examination to provide a clearer understanding of the subject matter.

Understanding Key Concepts in Government

Before diving into the specific questions from the 2017 WAEC Government exam, it's crucial to understand the core concepts that underpin the study of government. These concepts form the foundation upon which all other knowledge is built. Some of the most vital include:

• Sovereignty: The supreme and ultimate power or authority within a state's territory.
• Legitimacy: The popular acceptance of a government's authority to rule.
• Separation of Powers: The division of governmental power among different branches (legislative, executive, and judicial) to prevent tyranny and ensure checks and balances.
• Rule of Law: The principle that all people and institutions are subject to and accountable to law that is fairly applied and enforced.
• Democracy: A system of government in which power is vested in the people and exercised directly by them or through elected representatives.
• Federalism: A system of government in which power is divided between a central government and regional or state governments.
• Constitution: A body of fundamental principles or established precedents according to which a state or other organization is acknowledged to be governed.

Having a firm grasp of these concepts will significantly aid in comprehending and answering questions related to government.

WAEC Government 2017: Sample Questions and Detailed Answers

The following are sample questions from the WAEC Government 2017 examination, along with detailed answers and explanations. These examples will help to illustrate the type of questions that are typically asked and the level of detail required in the answers.

Question 1:

(a) Define the term 'political party'.

(b) Outline five functions of political parties in a democratic state.

Answer:

(a) Definition of a Political Party:

A political party is an organized group of people with broadly similar political aims and opinions that seeks to influence public policy by getting its candidates elected to public office. It is an association of like-minded individuals who come together to contest elections and form a government, thereby implementing their policies and programs.

(b) Functions of Political Parties in a Democratic State:

1. Interest Aggregation: Political parties bring together diverse interests and demands from various groups within society into a coherent political platform. They synthesize these interests into a manageable set of policy proposals that appeal to a broad base of voters.
2. Political Socialization: Parties play a crucial role in educating and informing the public about political issues. Through campaigns, rallies, and media appearances, they shape public opinion and promote political awareness. They also help to instill democratic values and norms among citizens.
3. Recruitment and Nomination of Candidates: Political parties identify and recruit individuals to stand for election. They provide training and resources to these candidates and help them to develop their political skills. The nomination process ensures that the party fields candidates who are capable and representative of the party's ideals.
4. Electioneering and Mobilization: Parties are actively involved in campaigning for their candidates during elections. They organize rallies, distribute campaign materials, and use various media platforms to reach voters. They also mobilize their supporters to participate in the electoral process by voting for their candidates.
5. Government Formation: In a democratic system, the political party that wins a majority of seats in the legislature usually forms the government. The party then implements its policies and programs, and its leaders occupy key positions in the executive branch. Parties provide stability and direction to the government.

Question 2:

(a) What is a Constitution?

(b) Explain four ways by which a Constitution can be amended.

Answer:

(a) Definition of a Constitution:

A Constitution is a body of fundamental principles or established precedents according to which a state or other organization is acknowledged to be governed. It is the supreme law of the land, outlining the structure of government, the rights and responsibilities of citizens, and the relationship between the government and the people.

(b) Ways by Which a Constitution Can Be Amended:

1. Legislative Process: This is the most common method. An amendment is proposed in the legislature (e.g., Parliament or National Assembly) and must be passed by a specified majority, often a two-thirds or three-fourths vote. This ensures broad consensus before a change is made to the Constitution.
2. Popular Referendum: Some constitutions require that proposed amendments be submitted to the people in a referendum. This allows citizens to directly vote on whether to approve the change. This method is often used for significant constitutional changes that affect fundamental rights or the structure of government.
3. Constitutional Convention: A constitutional convention is a gathering of delegates elected or appointed for the purpose of drafting or revising a constitution. The convention proposes amendments, which must then be ratified by the legislature or through a referendum.
4. Judicial Interpretation: The judiciary, particularly the Supreme Court or Constitutional Court, can amend the constitution through its interpretation of constitutional provisions. Over time, judicial decisions can change the meaning and application of constitutional principles, effectively amending the constitution without formal changes to the text.

Question 3:

(a) Define the term 'federalism'.

(b) Discuss five reasons why federalism is adopted in some countries.

Answer:

(a) Definition of Federalism:

Federalism is a system of government in which power is divided between a central government and regional or state governments. Each level of government has its own defined powers and responsibilities, and neither is subordinate to the other. It is a constitutional division of powers, where the central and regional governments operate within their own spheres of authority.

(b) Reasons for Adopting Federalism:

1. Accommodation of Diversity: Federalism is often adopted in countries with diverse ethnic, religious, or cultural groups. It allows different regions to maintain their distinct identities and institutions while still being part of a larger nation.
2. Prevention of Tyranny: By dividing power between different levels of government, federalism helps to prevent the concentration of power in a single entity. This reduces the risk of authoritarianism and protects individual liberties.
3. Promotion of Efficiency: Federalism allows for greater responsiveness to local needs and preferences. State and local governments can tailor policies and programs to suit the specific circumstances of their regions, leading to more effective governance.
4. Economic Development: Federalism can promote economic development by fostering competition among states. States may compete to attract businesses and investment by offering favorable tax policies and regulatory environments.
5. Historical Factors: In some cases, federalism is adopted due to historical factors, such as the unification of previously independent states. These states may have agreed to form a federation to achieve common goals while retaining a degree of autonomy.

Question 4:

(a) What is the Rule of Law?

(b) Highlight six importance of the Rule of Law in a democratic society.

Answer:

(a) Definition of the Rule of Law:

The Rule of Law is a fundamental principle of governance in which all people, institutions, and entities, public and private, including the State itself, are accountable to laws that are publicly promulgated, equally enforced, and independently adjudicated, and which are consistent with international human rights norms and standards. It requires adherence to the principles of supremacy of the law, equality before the law, accountability to the law, fairness in the application of the law, separation of powers, participation in decision-making, legal certainty, avoidance of arbitrariness, and procedural and legal transparency.

(b) Importance of the Rule of Law in a Democratic Society:

1. Protection of Rights and Liberties: The rule of law ensures that all citizens are treated equally before the law and that their fundamental rights and freedoms are protected. It limits the arbitrary exercise of power and provides recourse for individuals whose rights have been violated.
2. Accountability of Government: The rule of law holds government officials accountable for their actions and ensures that they operate within the bounds of the law. It prevents corruption and abuse of power and promotes transparency in government operations.
3. Peace and Order: The rule of law provides a framework for resolving disputes peacefully and maintaining social order. It establishes clear rules and procedures for addressing grievances and ensures that conflicts are resolved through legal means rather than violence.
4. Economic Development: The rule of law is essential for economic development as it provides a stable and predictable legal environment for businesses and investors. It protects property rights, enforces contracts, and reduces the risk of corruption and arbitrary regulation.
5. Equality before the Law: The rule of law promotes equality by ensuring that all individuals are subject to the same laws and legal processes. It prevents discrimination and ensures that everyone has equal access to justice.
6. Legitimacy of Government: The rule of law enhances the legitimacy of government by demonstrating that it is based on the consent of the governed and that it operates in accordance with established legal principles. This fosters public trust and confidence in the government.

Question 5:

(a) Define the term 'Separation of Powers'.

(b) What are the importance of Separation of Powers in governance?

Answer:

(a) Definition of Separation of Powers:

Separation of Powers is a doctrine of constitutional law under which the three branches of government (executive, legislative, and judicial) are kept separate to prevent abuse of power. Typically, each branch has its own distinct powers and responsibilities. The intent is to prevent the concentration of power in any single branch, thereby ensuring a system of checks and balances.

(b) Importance of Separation of Powers in Governance:

1. Prevention of Tyranny: Separation of powers prevents the concentration of power in any single branch of government. This reduces the risk of authoritarianism and protects individual liberties. By dividing power, it ensures that no one branch can become too dominant.
2. Checks and Balances: It allows each branch to check the powers of the other branches. For example, the legislature can impeach the executive, the executive can veto legislation, and the judiciary can review the constitutionality of laws.
3. Promotion of Efficiency: By assigning specific responsibilities to each branch, separation of powers promotes efficiency in government operations. Each branch can focus on its area of expertise, leading to better decision-making and implementation.
4. Protection of Individual Rights: Separation of powers protects individual rights by preventing the arbitrary exercise of power. It ensures that government actions are subject to legal review and that citizens have recourse to challenge decisions that violate their rights.
5. Accountability of Government: It enhances the accountability of government officials by making them responsible to different branches of government. This reduces the risk of corruption and abuse of power and promotes transparency in government operations.
6. Stability of Government: Separation of powers contributes to the stability of government by providing a framework for resolving disputes between different branches. It ensures that conflicts are resolved through legal means rather than through political upheaval.

Tips for Success in WAEC Government Examination

To excel in the WAEC Government examination, consider the following tips:

1. Thorough Understanding of Key Concepts: Ensure you have a solid understanding of fundamental concepts such as sovereignty, legitimacy, separation of powers, rule of law, democracy, federalism, and constitutionalism.
2. Regular Study and Revision: Dedicate sufficient time to study and revise the course material. Create a study schedule and stick to it.
3. Practice with Past Questions: Solve past WAEC Government questions to familiarize yourself with the exam format and the types of questions that are typically asked. This will also help you to identify areas where you need to improve.
4. Stay Updated on Current Affairs: Keep abreast of current political events and developments, both nationally and internationally. This will enhance your ability to analyze and evaluate political issues.
5. Develop Strong Analytical Skills: Practice analyzing and evaluating political issues from different perspectives. Develop the ability to construct well-reasoned arguments and support them with evidence.
6. Effective Time Management: During the examination, manage your time effectively. Allocate sufficient time to each question and avoid spending too much time on any one question.
7. Clarity and Precision in Answers: Write your answers clearly and precisely, using appropriate terminology. Avoid vague or ambiguous statements.
8. Neatness and Organization: Present your answers in a neat and organized manner. Use headings and subheadings to structure your responses and make them easy to read.
9. Seek Clarification When Needed: Don't hesitate to ask your teacher or classmates for clarification on any topics that you find difficult to understand.
10. Stay Calm and Confident: Approach the examination with a calm and confident attitude. Believe in your abilities and trust that you have prepared adequately.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Lack of Understanding of Key Concepts: Failing to grasp the fundamental concepts of government will hinder your ability to answer questions effectively.
• Poor Time Management: Spending too much time on one question can leave you with insufficient time to answer other questions.
• Vague or Ambiguous Answers: Providing vague or ambiguous answers will not earn you marks. Be clear and precise in your responses.
• Ignoring the Question Requirements: Failing to address all parts of a question will result in a lower score. Read each question carefully and ensure that you answer all aspects of it.
• Lack of Examples: Failing to provide relevant examples to support your arguments will weaken your answers.
• Poor Organization: Presenting your answers in a disorganized manner will make it difficult for the examiner to understand your points.

Further Resources for WAEC Government Preparation

To further enhance your preparation for the WAEC Government examination, consider the following resources:

• Textbooks: Use recommended textbooks to gain a comprehensive understanding of the course material.
• Online Resources: Explore online resources such as educational websites, online libraries, and video tutorials to supplement your learning.
• Past Questions and Answers: Obtain past WAEC Government questions and answers to practice and familiarize yourself with the exam format.
• Study Groups: Join or form study groups with your classmates to discuss and review the course material.
• Tutorial Classes: Attend tutorial classes or seek help from a private tutor to address any specific areas where you need assistance.

Conclusion

The WAEC Government examination requires a thorough understanding of key concepts, analytical skills, and the ability to apply knowledge to various scenarios. By studying diligently, practicing with past questions, and staying updated on current affairs, students can increase their chances of success. Understanding the core concepts, avoiding common mistakes, and utilizing available resources are all vital steps in preparing for and excelling in the WAEC Government examination. Good luck!