In recent times, there has been growing debate across Nigeria about the potential benefits of shifting from a presidential to a parliamentary system of government.
This development has sparked mixed reactions among stakeholders. While some believe that a parliamentary system could foster greater accountability, improve governance, and mitigate some of the inefficiencies observed in the current presidential system, others argue it could lead to further ethnic division, saying that it won’t solve the problem of the country.
But what exactly does a parliamentary system entail? In this article, Tribune Online presents a 10-point explainer on the parliamentary system of government, which Nigeria once practiced from 1960 until it was interrupted by a military coup in 1966.
1. Definition
A parliamentary system is a type of government in which the head of government, usually the prime minister, gains authority through the legislature and is accountable to it. This contrasts with a presidential system, where the president operates independently of the legislature.
2. Legislative Supremacy
In a parliamentary democracy, the legislative branch has supremacy over the executive branch. This means the government must retain the confidence of the parliamentary majority to stay in power.
3. Formation of Government
The political party chooses the prime minister or coalition that secures a majority in parliament, usually serving as the leader of the majority party or coalition.
4. Role of the Head of State
In many parliamentary systems, a ceremonial head of state, such as a monarch or an elected president, performs symbolic duties. The head of state generally lacks significant legislative powers, which are primarily held by parliament.
5. Accountability
Parliamentary systems provide direct accountability. If the government loses parliamentary confidence, it can be dissolved, leading to new elections. This ensures the government remains responsive to the electorate.
6. Legislative Process
Laws typically pass by a majority vote in parliament and do not require the head of state’s approval to become law, streamlining the legislative process compared to systems where the executive has veto power.
7. Judicial Independence
Most parliamentary democracies have an independent judiciary to review laws for constitutionality. However, in some systems, like the UK, there is no formal mechanism for judicial review, granting the legislature considerable authority.
8. Efficiency in Governance
Supporters argue that parliamentary systems are more efficient than presidential ones. The absence of rigid checks and balances enables quicker decision-making, reducing the likelihood of gridlock. However, in the current political landscape, checks and balances in the presidential system of government are very active where they are written.
9. Public Influence
Parliamentary systems are designed to be highly responsive to public opinion. If a government loses favour, it can be removed swiftly, fostering a more dynamic political environment.
10. Global Examples
Countries such as Canada, the United Kingdom, and Germany are examples of successful parliamentary systems. While they operate with distinct variations that reflect their political contexts, they share the core principles of parliamentary governance.
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