Explain the role of opposition parties in a democracy.

The political parties that contest and win the elections form the ruling party of the country. All the other parties that lose the elections are the opposition parties. The opposition parties play a major role in the functioning of the democratic system. They can have both positive and negative impacts on the functioning of the democratic system.

Advantages

• Prevents misuse of power- The presence of opposition parties in the democratic system helps in preventing the misuse of power by the ruling party. They check the power relationships between the ruling and the opposition parties and maintains an effective balance in the political structure.

• Efficient working- The presence of a solid and well-defined opposition party ensures the efficient working of the political system in the country. They express different views and criticise the government for its failures or incorrect policies. Though their questioning and vocal criticism, they ensure the functioning of the democratic system.

• Constant update- The proper functioning of the opposition ensures that the maladministration of the government is brought to the notice of the citizens immediately. Thus the ruling party will ensure better performance every time to maintain a worthy appearance among the citizens.

Disadvantages

• Spreading false information- There is always a tendency of the leaders of the opposition parties to be in the limelight. For this, they sometimes spread false information among the citizens. It is comparatively easier for the opposition leaders to spread false information and allegations about the ruling leaders.

• Hinder political process- In most cases the opposition parties disrupt the functioning of the government in the Parliament against certain decisions. This hinders and delays the passing of many bills and the conduct of the political process. This hinders the progress of the country.