When does a citizen have an equal role in decision making?

a. A citizen will have equal role in the decision making or in the governance of the country when certain fundamental rights are given to him which limits the power of the Government. 

b. Also by means of an Independent Constitution that defines the rules and regulations according to which a government functions.

c. When a country is governed Rule of law and not as per the wishes of the ruler.

All the above factors are the essence of a Democratic rule that allows participation of the people in the political process.