In a democracy, power is primarily held by whom?

In a democracy, the fundamental principle is that power ultimately rests with the people. This means that citizens have the right to influence government decisions, elect representatives, and participate in the political process. Democratic systems are designed to ensure accountability and responsiveness of government to the will of the populace. This is often realized through mechanisms such as elections, public consultations, and referendums.

While government officials, corporate leaders, and judicial authorities play significant roles within a democratic framework, they primarily act on behalf of the people. Government officials are elected or appointed to serve and implement the interests of their constituents. Corporate leaders operate within the framework set by government regulations and are accountable to shareholders and customers, not necessarily the public at large. Judicial authorities uphold the law and ensure justice but do not wield power in a manner that overrides the collective will of the citizens.

Therefore, the essence of democracy lies in the empowerment of individuals, underscoring the people's role as the true source of authority and governance.