What is a key aspect of accountability in governance?

A key aspect of accountability in governance is that it ensures elected officials are directly answerable to voters. This principle emphasizes the necessity for representatives to be held responsible for their actions and decisions while in office. When officials are accountable, they must justify their policies and performance to their constituents, fostering transparency and trust in the democratic process.

This direct answerability encourages elected representatives to act in the best interest of the people they serve and opens a channel for citizens to express their approval or disapproval through mechanisms such as elections. By ensuring that officials are regularly assessed by the electorate, accountability helps to maintain a responsive and responsible government, ultimately enhancing democratic legitimacy.