Presidential System of Government – SS1 Government Lesson Note (Second Term)

A presidential system of government is a single executive system whereby a man or woman is both the head of state and the head of government. Examples of countries with presidential constitutions are the USA, Spain, Philippines and Nigeria.

Characteristics Of The Presidential System Of Government

1. All executive power is vested in the president.

2. The system of checks and balances is pronounced.

3. The president and ministers are not members of the legislature.

4. The president doesn’t need to come from the party which has the majority in the legislature.

5. The president can appoint some of his ministers outside the party.

6. There is a clear-cut separation of power.

7. The president can be removed through impeachment.

8. The party discipline is weak.

Merits Of A Presidential System Of Government

1. The president is the symbol of unity since the whole country is his constituency.

2. A presidential system of government facilitates quick decision-making and provides effective leadership.

3. The president receives praise and blame for the activities of his administration.

4. It allows the president to make use of the needed experts outside the party system.

5. The principle of separation of power can prevent the government from becoming a dictator.

6. Individual ministers are accountable for their deeds and misdeeds.