One way in which citizens of a democratic governing system express their free will and put eligible candidates in power is through voting.
Hence, citizens vote:
- To ensure the key concept of democratic governance is realized;
- To form a government that represents the people;
- To ensure equality;
- To express patriotism and practice democracy
- To participate in the affairs of their country;
- To ensure elected representatives are held accountable;
- To elect the governing body that represents its citizens at various national and international forums;
- To ensure the government develops and implements policies that benefit its citizens;
- To ensure citizens have the opportunity to express their views;
- Because elections are a standard tool for measuring good governance.
In addition, there are negative impacts to citizens refraining from voting, such as:
- Being governed by a representative that does not represent them
- To be subjected to the decisions of a governing body and system that they have neither chosen nor supported
- Candidates with a superior governing system who are supported by the public failing to get elected due to low voter turnout.
In order to prevent these and other negative effects, citizens should utilize their citizenship rights and vote.