On what should results be decided in a democratic election?

Correct answer: On the basis of voters' votes

The correct answer is A, on the basis of voters’ votes. In a democratic election, citizens express their preferences by voting, and the result is determined by the valid votes cast and counted according to the rules. This makes the elected representative answerable to the people. Option A is correct because the people’s votes are the lawful basis of the result. Option B is wrong because threats take away free choice and create fear. Option C is wrong because rumours are unverified claims and cannot be a legitimate method for deciding representation. Option D is wrong because heredity may matter in a hereditary system, but democratic elections do not give office automatically to a family. Proper counting is also important: votes must be recorded and counted accurately so that the declared result reflects the voters’ decision. Memory cue: in a democracy, the ballot—not fear, gossip, or family birth—decides.