Concept:Corruption is a major obstacle to national development because it diverts resources meant for public welfare.
Explanation:When public officials misuse government power for private gain, funds meant for roads, schools, hospitals, and social amenities are mismanaged.
This weakens public institutions and reduces the quality of services available to citizens.
It also discourages both local and foreign investors, which slows economic growth.
Furthermore, corruption promotes inequality and poverty, rather than reducing them.
In contrast, a low poverty level is a sign of development, not a barrier.
Nor is the existence of a multi-party system inherently an obstacle to development.
Persistent rural-urban migration is a social challenge, but it is not as fundamental a barrier as corruption, which directly erodes governance and national progress.
Answer:C. prevalence of corrupt practices