Political accountability is maintained in democratic systems through several key mechanisms designed to ensure leaders act in the public's interest. Regular and free elections allow voters to assess and choose representatives based on their performance. Additionally, independent judicial systems provide a means to hold leaders legally accountable for malfeasance or misconduct. Transparency measures, such as public records and open meetings, enable citizens to scrutinize governmental actions. Moreover, civil society organizations and media play vital roles in monitoring and reporting on government activities, creating an informed electorate that demands accountability and responsiveness from their leaders.