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

INTRODUCTION

An electoral system is also known as voting process. It is a set of rules and regulations that determine how elections and referendums are conducted. The whole system includes parties registration, voter registration, political campaign, accreditations, voting and declaration of results and dispute resolution.

SIMPLE MAJORITY SYSTEM 

Simple majority system is also referred as First Past The Post or Winner Takes All. It is a voting system used to determine the winner in an election or a referendum.

In this system, the candidate with the highest votes in an election (though not necessarily a majority of votes) is declared the winner. Countries that practice this system includes the following, Britain, Canada, Ghana, Nigeria etc.

 

CHARACTERISTICS OF THE SIMPLE MAJORITY SYSTEM 

The simple majority system is characterized by its simplicity and speed but is often criticized for its potential to overlook minority views and create less representative outcomes.

1. It is a plurality voting.

2. It is single-member districts.

3. It is decentralized voting.

4. It is winner-takes-all.

5. It allows results to be determined promptly.

6. It has high threshold for victory.

7. It can create feelings of voter dissatisfaction and undermine the perceived legitimacy of the outcome.

8. It focuses on the issues that appeal to a specific voter base rather than seeking to build a broad consensus.

ADVANTAGES OF SIMPLE MAJORITY SYSTEM 

1. It is easy to understand and Implement.

2. It brings out quick results.

3. It encourages broad-based support

4. It promotes accountability.

5. It represents the interest of the majority.

DISADVANTAGES OF SIMPLE MAJORITY SYSTEM 

1. It is undemocratic in nature.

2. It does not represent the wish of the majority.

3. It encourages election rigging.

4. It disregards minority views.

5. It limits representatives.

6. It can lead to polarization.

7. It deepens divisions and conflict within society.

8. It makes people feel that their votes maybe a waste or insignificant.

9. It can lead to voter apathy or discourage participation in the electoral process.

QUESTION

1. Define simple majority system.

2. Outline five advantages of simple majority system.

3. State five disadvantages of simple majority system.

4. Mention five characteristics of simple majority system.