In a constitutional and representative democracy, it is implicit that the representatives exercise only those powers which are allocated to them in accordance with constitutional provisions. Genuine free and periodic elections in accordance with paragraph (b) of article 25 of the ICCPR are essential to ensure the accountability of representatives for the exercise of the powers vested in them. Such elections must be held at intervals which are not unduly long and which ensure that the authority of government continues to be based on the free expression of the will of electors.