Political accountability refers to the obligation of elected officials and public servants to be answerable for their actions and decisions to the electorate. This principle fosters transparency and integrity within the political system, ensuring that officials uphold their duties and act in the public's best interest. Mechanisms such as elections, audits, and public oversight play crucial roles in promoting accountability. When officials are held accountable, trust in government and civic engagement tends to increase, reinforcing democratic ideals and encouraging citizen participation in governance.