Merits of the Presidential System
Clear Separation of Powers:
The executive, legislature, and judiciary work independently, ensuring no single branch becomes too powerful.
Example: In the U.S., the Supreme Court (judiciary) can declare laws passed by Congress or actions by the President unconstitutional.
Expert Government:
The President can appoint experts to key positions, even if they are not politicians.
Example: In the U.S., the President appoints specialists like economists or scientists to head departments like the Treasury or NASA
Stable Government:
The President’s fixed term ensures stability, as they cannot be removed easily.
Example: In Mexico, the President serves a single 6-year term with no risk of sudden removal by the legislature.
Less Party Influence:
Political parties have less control over the President, as their term is fixed.
Example: In the U.S., the President can make decisions without constant pressure from their political party.
Demerits of the Presidential System
Less Accountable Executive:
The President is not answerable to the legislature, which can lead to authoritarian tendencies.
Example: Critics argue that some U.S. Presidents have used executive orders to bypass Congress, raising concerns about unchecked power.
Deadlocks Between Branches:
Conflicts between the President and legislature can delay or block decisions.
Example: In the U.S., government shutdowns have occurred when the President and Congress cannot agree on budget bills.
Rigid System:
The fixed term and structure make it hard to adapt to sudden changes or crises.
Example: In Brazil, a President facing public discontent cannot be removed easily before their term ends.
Spoils System:
The President may appoint loyalists or unqualified people to key roles.
Example: In some cases, U.S. Presidents have been criticized for appointing close allies or donors to high-level positions
Merits of the Parliamentary System
Strong Accountability:
The executive is answerable to Parliament, ensuring regular scrutiny of government actions.
Example: In the UK, the Prime Minister faces weekly Question Time in Parliament to answer MPs’ queries.
Flexible Government:
The government can be replaced quickly if it loses support, allowing adaptability to public opinion.
Example: In India, a no-confidence motion in 1999 led to the fall of the government, triggering new elections.
Cooperation Between Branches:
Since the executive is part of the legislature, passing laws is often easier when the government has a majority.
Example: In Canada, the ruling party’s majority in Parliament helps pass budgets smoothly.
Representation of Diverse Groups:
Coalition governments in multi-party systems allow smaller parties to have a voice.
Example: In Germany, coalition governments often include smaller parties like the Greens, ensuring diverse representation.
Demerits of the Parliamentary System
No Clear Separation of Powers:
The executive is part of the legislature, so Parliament may not always hold the government accountable, especially with a strong majority.
Example: In India, anti-defection laws force MPs to vote with their party, limiting independent oversight.
Unqualified Legislators:
Many MPs focus on becoming ministers rather than developing law-making skills, leading to weaker legislation.
Example: In the UK, some MPs prioritize political loyalty over expertise in drafting laws.
Instability in Coalitions:
If no party wins a majority, coalition governments can be unstable and short-lived.
Example: Italy has had over 60 governments since World War II due to fragile coalitions.
Limited Choice of Ministers:
Ministers must be MPs, excluding experts from outside Parliament.
Example: In Canada, the Prime Minister cannot appoint a non-elected expert as a minister without them first becoming an MP.
Hesitant Decision-Making:
Fear of losing Parliament’s support may prevent bold or long-term decisions.
Example: In India, coalition governments have delayed economic reforms to maintain support from smaller parties.
Party Politics Over National Interest:
Party loyalty often drives decisions, overshadowing broader public needs.
Example: In the UK, party whips ensure MPs vote with the party, even on controversial issues.
