Electoral accountability refers to the responsibility of elected officials to their constituents, ensuring that they act in the public's best interest. When citizens vote in elections, they have the power to hold politicians accountable for their actions and decisions. If officials fail to meet the expectations of their voters, they risk losing their positions in future elections. This concept is essential for a functioning democracy, as it encourages transparency and responsiveness from elected representatives. Mechanisms like free elections, public debates, and media scrutiny help maintain this accountability, allowing voters to make informed choices about who should lead them.