Posted by Chester Morton / Friday 25 November 2016 / No comments
The advantages of a one-party system
Definition of one-party
A one-party system refers to the political party system in which
only one party has access to the political power of the state. A one-party
could be de facto or de jure. If it is de facto, it means there are other
political parties in existence but one particular party overshadows all the
others. If it is de jure, then it means by law only one party is allowed to
operate in the country.
ADVANTAGES
Politically stable government
In a one-party system, there is no change of government and one
individual can lead the government for a long time before the button is
transferred to another person. Therefore the country remains politically
stable.
Ensures national integration
Another advantage of a one-party system is that the entire
nation is able to rally round the only party regardless of their ethnic,
religious and cultural differences. In other words, one-party system promotes unity
and national integration.
Ensures continuous economic development
In a one-party state, since the government stays in power for
a very long time, it is able to draw economic programmes for the state and
implement them without any interference. In other words, the economic path that
the party chooses is continuously implemented to the benefit of the citizenry.
Allows for speedy decision-making
One-party system allows for quick decision making. This is
because there is no other body to consult and reach compromises with. As soon
as the party takes the decision, that is the final and has to be implemented.
It is not divisive
In a one-party system, divisive tendencies are eliminated or
brought to the barest minimum. This is most helpful in Africa where most time
parties are formed on ethnic, tribal and religious lines.
Useful in times of emergencies
Another advantage of a one-party system is that in times of
emergencies, the government of the day can act swiftly to save the situation.
For example, if there is an outbreak of war, the Commander-in-Chief can be held
down by unnecessary delays as would have been the case in a two-party or
multi-party system.
SAMPLE QUESTIONS
1. a. What is a one-party system? [2 marks]
b. Highlight five
advantages of a one-party system. [10 marks]
2. Highlight six advantages of a one-party system. [12 marks]
ALSO READ:
The disadvantages of a multi-party system
ALSO READ:
The disadvantages of a multi-party system
