1.It creates a sense of disunity and 'factionalism' in every locality.

2.Different political parties and leaders often level allegations against one another.

3.Parties and candidates often use dirty tricks to win elections.

4.Some people say that this pressure to win electoral fights does not allow sensible long-term policies to be formulated.

5.Some good people who may wish to serve the country do not enter this arena as they do not like the idea of being dragged into unhealthy competition.

Demerits of Electoral Competition

Electoral competition is a fundamental aspect of democratic systems, allowing citizens to have a say in their governance. However, there are several demerits associated with electoral competition that can hinder the effectiveness and fairness of the electoral process. Here are six demerits of electoral competition:

1. Polarization and Divisiveness:
Electoral competition often leads to increased polarization and divisiveness within societies. Political parties and candidates may resort to divisive tactics, such as spreading misinformation, exploiting identity politics, and fueling social tensions for electoral gains. This can lead to a divided society and hinder the ability to find common ground and address important issues.

2. Populism and Short-termism:
Electoral competition can encourage politicians to adopt populist and short-term policies to win votes, rather than focusing on long-term solutions. This can lead to the neglect of complex and crucial issues that require sustained attention and comprehensive strategies. Populist policies often prioritize immediate popularity over the greater good, undermining the overall progress of a nation.

3. Negative Campaigning:
In competitive elections, negative campaigning is often employed to discredit opponents. Candidates may resort to personal attacks, character assassination, and spreading false information about their rivals. This not only undermines the credibility of the electoral process but also distracts from substantive policy discussions and the evaluation of candidates' qualifications.

4. Manipulation and Voter Suppression:
Electoral competition can create an environment conducive to manipulation and voter suppression. Unethical practices, such as gerrymandering, voter intimidation, and the dissemination of fake news, can distort the electoral landscape. These tactics undermine the principle of free and fair elections, compromising the democratic values of inclusivity and equal representation.

5. High Cost of Campaigns:
Competitive elections often require significant financial resources, leading to a high cost of campaigns. Candidates and political parties may rely on wealthy donors and special interest groups for funding, potentially compromising their independence and accountability to the electorate. Moreover, the need for extensive campaign financing can deter qualified individuals from running for office, limiting the choices available to voters.

6. Policy Inconsistency and Instability:
Frequent electoral competition can lead to policy inconsistency and instability. As political parties alternate in power, they may overturn or modify policies implemented by their predecessors. This lack of continuity can disrupt long-term planning, hinder economic development, and create uncertainty for citizens and businesses.

In conclusion, while electoral competition is an essential aspect of democracy, it is important to recognize and address its demerits. Measures such as campaign finance reform, promoting issue-based campaigns, ensuring media responsibility, and strengthening electoral institutions can help mitigate the negative effects of electoral competition and protect the integrity of the democratic process.