Theory question 103
Presidential and Parliamentary Systems(a) Define parliamentarianism
(b) Identify four differences between parliamentary and presidential systems of government.
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(a) Parliamentarianism (the parliamentary system) is a system in which the executive (Prime Minister and cabinet) is drawn from and responsible to the legislature, and holds office as long as it keeps parliament's confidence.
(b) Any four:
1. Parliamentary: dual executive (ceremonial head of state + PM); presidential: single executive (president is both).
2. Parliamentary: fusion of powers; presidential: separation of powers.
3. Ministers are MPs in parliamentary; not legislators in presidential.
4. Collective responsibility to parliament vs ministers responsible to the president.
5. Government can be removed by vote of no confidence vs fixed term with impeachment only.
6. PM can dissolve parliament; president cannot dissolve the legislature.
7. PM is leader of majority party in parliament; president elected directly by the people.
Set out differences side by side: parliamentary vs presidential.