Which criticism highlights the parliamentary system’s departure from the principle of separation of powers?

The correct answer is The cabinet simultaneously leads the executive and legislature, creating fusion of powers.

Key Points

• The parliamentary system exhibits a fusion of powers, where the executive branch (cabinet) is drawn from and accountable to the legislature.
• This fusion of powers departs from the principle of separation of powers, which emphasizes distinct and independent roles for the executive, legislature, and judiciary.
• Ministers in the cabinet serve dual roles as heads of executive departments and legislators, which can lead to overlap of functions.
• The Prime Minister and cabinet are directly answerable to the legislature, often blurring the line between the two branches of government.
• In contrast, the presidential system follows a stricter separation of powers where the executive and legislature operate independently.

Additional Information

• Separation of Powers:
  • A constitutional principle that divides government responsibilities into three branches: executive, legislature, and judiciary.
  • Ensures no single branch exercises complete control, promoting checks and balances.
  • The concept was popularized by Montesquieu in his work "The Spirit of Laws."
• Fusion of Powers:
  • A characteristic of the parliamentary system where the executive and legislature are interconnected.
  • Allows for a unified government but can lead to less stringent checks and balances.
• Parliamentary System:
  • The head of government (Prime Minister) is usually a member of the legislature.
  • The executive is dependent on the support of the legislature and can be removed by a vote of no confidence.
  • Examples include the systems of the United Kingdom and India.
• Presidential System:
  • Features a strict separation of powers between the executive and legislature.
  • The President is both the head of state and government, elected independently of the legislature.
  • Examples include the systems of the United States and Brazil.