Backbenchers are the members of a legislative body who are not a part of the ruling party and sit in the back of the chamber. There are several other words that can be used as synonyms for backbenchers such as rank and file members, opposition members, non-aligned members, ordinary members, or simply MPs. These terms refer to the fact that these members have little or no power in the ruling party and are not part of the decision-making process. Despite their limited influence, backbenchers can still play an important role in holding the government accountable and scrutinizing their policies and actions.