Types of Electoral System (Advantages and Disadvantages of Absolute Majority System)

ABSOLUTE MAJORITY SYSTEM 

Absolute majority system is also known as the majority or 50%+1 system. It an electoral system where a candidate must secure more than 50% of the votes to win. This system is often used in single-winner elections, such as presidential elections, where only one candidate can ultimately be declared winner.

Absolute majority is another form of geographical representation.

CHARACTERISTICS OF THE ABSOLUTE MAJORITY SYSTEM 

1. It requires more than 50% majority votes.

2. It promotes consensus-building.

3. It enhances legitimacy outcome.

4. It has high tendency of runoff elections.

5. It creates coalitions or alliances with candidates or political parties.

6. It is strategic voting system.

7. It doesn’t give room for minority representation challenges.

8. It is too expensive and time consuming.

ADVANTAGES OF ABSOLUTE MAJORITY SYSTEM 

1. It is democratic in nature.

2. It represents the wish of the majority.

3. It gives room for popular mandate.

4. The electoral system produces candidate with the qualities.

5. It ensures broad support. That’s, the support of a majority of voters.

6. It promotes consensus building:

7. It leads to moderate and inclusive policies.

8. The outcome is legitimate.

9. It reduces the risk of extreme candidates.

DISADVANTAGES OF ABSOLUTE MAJORITY SYSTEM 

1. It delays declaration of election result if no candidates scored 50% or 50% plus 1.

2. Absolutely majority is often difficult to obtain.

3. It is likely influent or manipulate by powerful politicians in the case of second ballot.

4. It gives room for vote buying and selling.

5. It is difficult to achieve a majority.

6. It can lead to political deadlock and the need for a run-off election or coalition-building.

7. It is too expensive and time-consuming.

8. It can lead to perceived lack of legitimacy and representation.

9. It can limit the freedom of choice for voters.

10. It has high threshold for smaller parties.

11. It has greater polarization and division.

QUESTION

1. Define absolute majority electoral system.

2. State five advantages of absolute majority system.

3. Mention five disadvantages of absolute majority system.

4. Highlight five characteristics of absolute majority system.