"Political accountability" in practice means that elected officials and government institutions are responsible for their actions and decisions to the public. This accountability can manifest through mechanisms such as transparency, regular reporting, and the capability for citizens to voice their concerns or grievances. Political accountability ensures that leaders are answerable for their conduct, facilitating trust and engagement within the political system. When accountability measures are strong, they can lead to better governance outcomes, as officials are incentivized to act in the public interest rather than for personal gain.