In which situation will electoral legitimacy be most doubtful?

Correct answer: Voters cannot express choice due to fear

Answer: D. Electoral legitimacy means that people can reasonably accept the authority of an elected government because the election represents their genuine choice. For this to happen, voters must be able to decide freely and express that decision without threats, coercion, or fear. If fear prevents voters from showing their real preference, the result may not reflect the people’s will, even if voting and counting formally occur. D is correct because intimidation directly damages free choice and therefore makes the mandate doubtful. A supports legitimacy because free voting shows genuine preference. B supports legitimacy because transparent counting helps establish that votes were recorded and counted properly. C supports legitimacy because meaningful competition gives voters alternatives, although competition alone is not sufficient. Memory cue: legitimacy requires a free choice, not merely a completed election.