How does the role of a neutral official in polling and counting strengthen democratic legitimacy?

Correct answer: By protecting the process from bias

Direct answer: A is correct. A neutral election official applies the same procedures to voters and candidates instead of using the office to favour one side. During polling, this means checking procedures fairly, protecting the secrecy of the vote and helping the station function according to the rules. During counting, it means supervising the handling and recording of votes impartially and announcing the result through the authorised process. A is correct because reducing bias makes the process more trustworthy and gives the result stronger democratic legitimacy. B is wrong: campaigning is a partisan activity and is incompatible with official neutrality. C is wrong: deleting the electoral roll would damage, not protect, the process. D is wrong: ending secrecy can expose voters to pressure. Memory cue: a neutral official serves the rules, not a candidate.