Which one of the following factors constitutes the best safeguard of liberty in a liberal democracy?

1. The question asks for the best safeguard of liberty in a liberal democracy. 2. Option (A), a 'committed judiciary', is ambiguous. While an independent judiciary is crucial, 'committed' could imply commitment to an ideology or regime rather than impartiality and the rule of law, which might undermine liberty. An independent judiciary is better described as part of the separation of powers. 3. Option (B), 'Centralization of powers', is generally considered a threat to liberty, as it concentrates power and reduces checks and balances. 4. Option (C), an 'Elected government', is a necessary condition for democracy but does not, by itself, guarantee liberty. An elected majority could potentially infringe upon the liberties of minorities or individuals (tyranny of the majority). 5. Option (D), 'Separation of powers', involves dividing governmental powers among distinct branches (typically legislative, executive, and judicial). This system creates checks and balances, preventing any single branch from accumulating excessive power and thereby acting arbitrarily. This structure is considered the most fundamental and effective institutional safeguard of liberty against potential government overreach. Therefore, the Separation of powers provides the strongest structural guarantee for liberty.