Which key feature allows citizens to select their leaders in a developmental democracy?

In a developmental democracy, the ability for citizens to select their leaders hinges on the concept of universal franchise. This principle ensures that all eligible citizens have the right to vote without discrimination based on factors like race, gender, or socioeconomic status. Universal franchise empowers individuals to participate in the electoral process, providing them with the opportunity to influence government decisions and policies through their voting choices.

Direct democracy, while emphasizing direct citizen participation in decision-making, is not as prevalent in contemporary representative systems where elected officials govern on behalf of the people. Monarchical rule implies a system where leadership is inherited rather than earned through electoral processes, thus limiting citizen choice. Technocratic leadership focuses on governance by experts rather than elected representatives, which bypasses citizen selection entirely. Hence, the feature that distinctly enables citizens to elect their leaders in a developmental democracy is universal franchise.