What is a key characteristic of a democratic government?

A key characteristic of a democratic government is the presence of free and fair elections. In a democracy, elections serve as the primary means by which citizens express their political preferences and make choices about their leaders and policies. These elections are conducted in a manner that ensures transparency, competitiveness, and inclusivity, allowing for a genuine representation of the electorate's will.

Free and fair elections help maintain governmental accountability, where elected officials are responsible to the voters. This process also fosters political participation and engagement among citizens, crucial aspects of a functional democracy. The legitimacy of a government is often derived from how well it represents the choices and preferences of its populace, which is directly reflected through the election process.

The other options, such as concentration of power in one leader or limited participation by citizens, are contrary to democratic principles and indicate authoritarian or undemocratic governance structures. The absence of legal frameworks also fails to align with the rule of law that is vital to ensure rights and liberties in a democratic society.