Identify the features of Presidential system of government:
A. Separation of powers
B. Checks and balances
C. Collective responsibility
D. A nominal head
E. Combination of legislature and executive

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

Correct option is C

The correct answer is (c) Only A, B.

Explanation of Features:

1. Separation of powers (A)– A key feature of the presidential system where the executive, legislature, and judiciary operate independently.

2. Checks and balances (B)– Ensures that no single branch becomes too powerful, as each branch can limit the powers of the others.

Incorrect :

• Collective responsibility (C)– This is a feature of the parliamentary system, where the executive (cabinet) is collectively accountable to the legislature.

• A nominal head (D)– Refers to a ceremonial head (like a president in a parliamentary system), not a presidential system where the president is both head of state and government.

• Combination of legislature and executive (E)– This is a feature of the parliamentary system, where the executive is drawn from the legislature.

Information Booster :

Presidential System of Government

The presidential system is a form of government where the executive branch(headed by a president) is separate from the legislative branch and operates independently.

Key features include:

1. Separation of Powers

• The executive (president), legislature (parliament/congress), and judiciary function independently.

• The president is not a member of the legislature and does not depend on it for survival.

2. Checks and Balances

• Each branch has powers to limit the others (e.g., the president can veto laws, but the legislature can override the veto).

• Prevents any one branch from becoming too powerful.

3. Fixed Tenure of the President

• The president is elected for a fixed term(e.g., 4 years in the US) and cannot be easily removed by the legislature (except through impeachment).

4. Direct or Indirect Election of the President

• The president is either directly elected by the people(e.g., USA) or by an electoral college.

5. No Collective Responsibility

• Unlike in a parliamentary system, the cabinet is appointed by the president and is accountable to the president, not the legislature.

6. Single Executive Authority

• The president serves as both the head of state and head of government, with significant executive powers.

Examples of Presidential Systems

• United States(classic example)

• Brazil, Mexico, Nigeria, Indonesia