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Difficulty: MediumElectoral Systems and Their Characteristics

In a parliamentary election held under the Second Ballot (run-off) electoral system, Candidate X obtained 42% of total valid votes, Candidate Y scored 35%, and Candidate Z received 23%. What is the required procedural outcome of this election?

  1. A
    Candidate X is declared the winner immediately for securing the highest number of valid votes cast.
  2. Candidate X and Candidate Y must contest in a second ballot because no candidate secured an absolute majority.Answer
  3. C
    Candidate X is required to form a coalition government with Candidate Z to reach over 50% of the vote.
  4. D
    The entire election must be invalidated and fresh nominations opened for all three candidates.

Answer

Candidate X and Candidate Y must contest in a second ballot because no candidate secured an absolute majority.
Under the Second Ballot (run-off) electoral system, a candidate must secure an absolute majority (more than 50% of the total valid votes) to be elected in the first round. Since the highest vote share was 42%, no candidate met this requirement, necessitating a second round of voting between the top two contenders.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the electoral system rules
The election operates under the Second Ballot (run-off) system.
Different electoral systems follow different thresholds to determine a winner.
2
Evaluate first-round vote percentages
Candidate X has 42%, Candidate Y has 35%, and Candidate Z has 23%. None reached the required threshold of over 50%.
The Second Ballot system requires a candidate to secure an absolute majority (>50%) to win in the first round.
3
Determine the mandatory next stage
The top two candidates (Candidate X and Candidate Y) advance to a run-off election.
When no candidate achieves an absolute majority, the weakest candidate is eliminated, and a second round is held between the top two vote-getters.

Key Concept

Second Ballot Electoral System Mechanics
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Topics

Electoral Systems and Their Characteristics

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