Correct option is C
The correct option to fill in the blank is (c) The; the.
Explanation:
We use the definite article 'the' before unique titles/posts (The Prime Minister). Similarly, 'the nation' is a specific entity referring to the citizens of the country.
Example: The President will meet the scientists.
Information Booster:
'The' is used when both the speaker and listener know which specific person or thing is being talked about. Titles of high-ranking officials are always preceded by 'the'.
So the correct answer is (c)