What does 'political accountability' require from government officials?

Political accountability fundamentally requires government officials to be responsible for their actions to both the public and the legislature. This means that officials must be transparent in their decision-making and open to scrutiny regarding their conduct and the outcomes of their policies. The essence of political accountability lies in the expectation that officials will answer to the citizens who elected them and to the legislative bodies that oversee governmental actions. This fosters a sense of trust and integrity in governance, ensuring that officials act in the best interest of the public and can be held accountable for their decisions.

In contrast, compliance with public opinion indicates a responsiveness to what citizens think but does not encompass the broader concept of accountability, which requires a duty to justify actions. Active participation in legislature meetings might demonstrate engagement but does not necessarily imply accountability if individuals are not held responsible for their decisions. Similarly, approval from political parties speaks to political alignment or support but does not address the obligation to answer to the constituents and the legislative framework. Thus, the requirement for accountability centers on responsiveness and responsibility to the public and legislative bodies rather than merely adhering to opinions or gaining political support.