Characteristics of an effective political leader include strong communication skills, integrity, vision, and decisiveness. Effective leaders must articulate their goals clearly and inspire others to foster support for their initiatives. Integrity builds trust with constituents, essential for maintaining legitimacy. A compelling vision helps leaders navigate controversies and unite people around common objectives. Decisiveness is crucial when faced with complex issues, enabling timely action. Additionally, emotional intelligence and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances are vital traits that contribute to sustainable governance and leadership success.