Political accountability is the accountability of the government, civil servants and politicians to the public and to legislative bodies such as congress or parliament.
Elections are a direct way of holding politicians accountable to the public.
In the lead up to an election, candidates and parties must campaign, explaining their position on matters of public interest. The electorate can also vote on a candidate's past record if he or she is seeking re-election. In some cases - for example the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia in Canada - voters also have the right to petition for a recall election between normal elections.
Generally, however, voters do not have any direct way of holding elected representatives to account during the term for which they have been elected.
Additionally, some officials and legislators may be appointed rather than elected.
Constitution, or statute, can empower a legislative body to hold their own members, the government, and government bodies to account. This can be through holding an internal or independent inquiry. Inquiries are usually held in response to an allegation of misconduct or corruption. The powers, procedures and sanctions vary from country to country.
The legislature may have the power to impeach the individual, remove them, or suspend them from office for a period of time. The accused person might also decide to resign before trial. Impeachment in the United States has been used both for elected representatives and other civil offices, such as district court judges.
In parliamentary systems, the government relies on the support or parliament, which gives parliament power to hold the government to account.
For example, some parliaments can motion for a vote of no confidence in the government.
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Source: wikipedia
