Introduction:
Free and fair electoral competition is a fundamental aspect of a democratic society. It ensures that the electoral process is transparent, inclusive, and reflective of the will of the people. In this response, we will discuss three important features of free and fair electoral competition.

1. Equal Access to Information:
In order to have a fair electoral competition, all candidates and political parties should have equal access to information. This means that there should be no discrimination or bias in the dissemination of information about the election process, voter registration, or candidates' platforms. Equal access to information enables voters to make informed decisions and prevents the manipulation of public opinion by any particular party or candidate.

Key Points:
- Transparency in the electoral process is essential to ensure equal access to information.
- Information about the election should be readily available to all citizens through multiple channels, such as the media, internet, and public forums.
- Candidates and political parties should have equal opportunities to communicate their message to the public.
- Ensuring equal access to information helps prevent the concentration of power and promotes a level playing field for all participants.

2. Impartial Electoral Administration:
Another crucial feature of free and fair electoral competition is the impartiality of the electoral administration. The electoral management body, such as an election commission, should be independent and free from any political influence. It should operate in a transparent manner, ensuring that the electoral process is conducted in a fair and unbiased manner.

Key Points:
- The electoral administration should have the authority and resources to effectively carry out its duties.
- It should be staffed by individuals who are non-partisan and have the necessary expertise and integrity to ensure a fair electoral process.
- The electoral administration should enforce election laws and regulations consistently, without favoritism towards any candidate or party.
- Regular monitoring and oversight of the electoral process should be conducted to detect and address any irregularities or misconduct.

3. Safeguards against Electoral Malpractices:
To maintain free and fair electoral competition, robust safeguards against electoral malpractices must be in place. These safeguards include measures to prevent voter intimidation, fraud, vote-buying, or any other form of electoral manipulation. This ensures that the election results accurately reflect the choices made by the electorate.

Key Points:
- Adequate security measures should be implemented to maintain a safe and peaceful environment for voters to exercise their right to vote freely.
- Electoral laws should set clear guidelines and penalties for any form of electoral misconduct.
- Independent election observers and monitors should be allowed to assess the fairness of the electoral process.
- Mechanisms for complaints and grievances should be established, providing a fair and efficient process for addressing any election-related disputes.

Conclusion:
Free and fair electoral competition is vital for the functioning of a democratic society. Equal access to information, impartial electoral administration, and safeguards against electoral malpractices are three essential features that ensure a level playing field and uphold the integrity of the electoral process. By adhering to these principles, democratic societies can foster trust, ensure representation, and uphold the will of the people.