Explanation:
(a) Characteristics of democracy
i. Respect for fundamental human rights
ii. Tolerance of varied views
iii. Operation of an Impartial electoral body
iv. Decentralization of powers
v. Respect for the principled of rule of law
vi. Freedom of association and groups
vii. Popular sovereignty/majority rule
viii. Possibility of changing government
ix. Eligibility to hold office
x. Representative government
xi. Party system
xii. Popular elections
xiii. Periodic Elections
xiv. Impartial Judiciary
xv. Constitutional governance
(b) Ways by which the practice of democracy can contribute to national development
i. Democracy promotes transparency and accountability
ii. It promotes rule of law and constitutionalism
iii. it engenders peace and unity
iv. Democracy makes it possible for the opposition to be heard
v. It leads to employment generation
vi. It encourages free choice of political leaders
vii. It facilitates effective participation of citizens in governance
viii. Democracy guarantees periodic elections to ensure smooth transition of government
ix. Democracy allows people's participation in politics
x. It allows for a smooth process of political participation