The term legitimacy is derived the Latin word “legitimus” and it means lawful or according to law. Therefore, legitimacy means a situation of being lawful. It may also be said that legitimacy is the general acceptance of the political system as the most appropriate and being in line with the laws of the land. A legitimate government is one that is constitutionally elected and is accepted to the populace. That is, a government that is in compliance with the laid down rules and regulations.
Factors that determine legitimacy
1) Popular Participation: For a political system to be accorded legitimacy, the various interest groups such as political parties, pressure etc. must be allowed to take part. Such participation will give the system the required acceptance by the populace.
2) Good Government: People accord legitimacy to a government which meets up their expectation of good governance.
3) Popular Support: Any government that receives the popular support of its citizens is a legitimate government. In democratic system, the party that receives the greatest support in an election forms the legitimate government.
4) Common National Symbols and Heroes: Existence of common national symbols like the national anthem, national pledge, national flag, coat of arms, national passport etc. make people to accept the government as a legitimate one. Also, through the acceptance of common heroes.
5) Peaceful Means of settling Dispute: Existence of peaceful means of settling disputes without constant resort to violent means or use of means of coercion affect legitimacy.
6) Leadership: A leader that performs well in office make people to accept his regime as a legitimate one.
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