An electoral mandate refers to the authority granted to elected officials by the electorate through their voting decisions. It signals the public's approval of a candidate’s platform, policies, or party affiliation. This mandate is significant as it not only legitimizes the leader's governance but also serves as a guiding framework for implementing policies, reflecting the electorate’s expectations. A strong mandate can bolster a leader's political capital, allowing them to push through controversial measures, while a weak mandate may limit their effectiveness and lead to increased scrutiny and opposition, influencing their ability to govern successfully.