The distinction between true and false democracy depends on the authenticity of the right to vote and the universality of the right to participate; the verbal promises made during the election and, more importantly, the fulfillment of promises made after the election; the political procedures and rules, and, still more, the implementation of systems and laws; and the democratic nature of rules and procedures for the operation of power and, still more, the people’s restraint on power. True democracy is the kind of politics in which the election is simple and honest, and after the election, all kinds of political rights are constantly realized. True democracy is the kind of politics in which the election feels sacred and after the election, the sacred rights are actually realized. True democracy is that kind of politics that makes you feel solemn in front of the ballot box and makes you happy after leaving the ballot box.

Editor: Zhong Yao、Zheng Yifan

From:CASS Journal of Political Science.2022.No.1.