Theory question 104
Separation of Powers and Checks and Balances(a) Highlight three ways in which the judicial arm of government sustains democracy.
(b) Examine three ways by which the executive arm of government can be put to check in a democracy.
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(a) Any three: protects fundamental rights and liberties; interprets the constitution and laws (judicial review); settles electoral disputes; resolves disputes between tiers/organs of government; upholds the rule of law; checks abuse of power by other organs.
(b) Any three: legislative control – impeachment, approval of appointments and budgets, investigations/probes, question time; judicial review of executive acts; periodic elections; public opinion, media and pressure groups; constitutional limits/term limits; anti-corruption agencies and the auditor-general.
Three for the judiciary; three checks on the executive.