Formal Authority or Instruction:
* Order: A command or instruction to be obeyed.
* Directive: A formal instruction or policy.
* Command: A strong order or instruction.
* Requirement: Something that is necessary or demanded.
* Authorization: The act of giving permission or authority.
* Commission: An official document that gives someone authority to do something.
* Delegation: The assignment of authority to someone else.
Political Context:
* Authority: The power to make decisions or give orders.
* Power: The ability to influence or control others.
* Permission: Formal authorization or consent.
* Legitimacy: The quality of being lawful or rightful.
General Usage:
* Instruction: A direction or order.
* Requirement: Something that is necessary or demanded.
* Obligation: A duty or responsibility.
* Duty: Something that one is morally or legally bound to do.
* Charge: A task or responsibility.
The best synonym to use depends on the specific context of the sentence. Consider what aspect of "mandate" you want to emphasize when choosing a synonym.