"Political accountability" refers to the obligation of elected officials to be answerable for their actions and decisions to the public and other governing bodies. It ensures that leaders remain responsive to the needs and interests of their constituents. This concept is crucial for maintaining democratic governance, as it holds politicians accountable through mechanisms such as elections, transparency, and public engagement. Voters, through their choices, can reward or punish officials based on their performance, thereby enhancing government integrity and responsiveness to citizen concerns.