Presidential System of Government - SS1 Government Lesson Note

A presidential system of government is a type of government where the executive branch is separate and coequal with the legislative branch, and the head of government is the president, who is directly elected by the people. The key characteristics of a presidential system include:

·         Separation of Powers: The legislative, executive, and judicial branches are separate but coequal, with each branch having specific powers and responsibilities.

·         Head of State and Head of Government: The president is both the head of state and the head of government, with significant political power and responsibility for running the government.

·         Direct Election: The president is directly elected by the people in a national election, rather than being appointed or selected by the legislature.

·         Fixed Term: The president serves a fixed term in office and cannot be removed from office except through impeachment or resignation.

·         Veto Power: The president has the power to veto legislation passed by the legislature, although the legislature may override the veto with a two-thirds majority vote.

·         Checks and Balances: The system of checks and balances ensures that no branch of government has too much power and that each branch can check the power of the others.