How does democracy produce an accountable, responsive and legitimate government?

The most basic outcome of democracy should be that it produces a government that is accountable to the citizens, responsive to the needs and expectations of the citizens and legitimate.

1. Accountability — In a democratic system, elected representatives and government officials are accountable for their actions and decisions. This accountability is enforced through mechanisms such as elections, parliamentary oversight, and independent watchdog institutions that ensure transparency and expose corruption or abuse of power.
2. Responsive Governance — Democratic governments are expected to be responsive to the needs and preferences of their citizens. Political parties and candidates compete for votes by proposing policies and programs that address the concerns of the electorate. This competition encourages responsiveness to public opinion and ensures that policies reflect the will of the people.
3. Legitimacy — Democratic governments derive their legitimacy from the consent of the governed. When citizens participate in free and fair elections and accept the outcomes, they confer legitimacy on their elected representatives and the government they form. This legitimacy enhances stability and encourages compliance with laws and policies.