In a parliamentary system of government, the executive branch is

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks about the relationship between the executive and the legislature in a parliamentary system.

Step 2: Explain the concept In a parliamentary system (e.g., the United Kingdom), there is a fusion of powers, not a strict separation:

• The Prime Minister and the Cabinet are drawn from the legislature (Parliament).
• Ministers must be members of Parliament.
• The executive stays in office only as long as it keeps the confidence of the legislature.

By contrast, in a presidential system (e.g., Nigeria, USA), there is a separation of powers. The President is elected separately and is not a member of the legislature.

Step 3: Evaluate the options

• A. Under the control of the judiciary: Wrong. The judiciary interprets laws but does not control the executive in this system.
• B. Combined with the legislative branch: Correct. Executive members come from, and sit in, the legislature.
• C. Elected through popular votes: Wrong. The Prime Minister is not directly elected by the people. He or she is the leader of the majority party in parliament.
• D. Separate from the legislative branch: Wrong. This describes the presidential system.

Step 4: Answer

Tip: Remember "Parliamentary = Partnership (fusion)" and "Presidential = Parted (separation)". If a question mentions a Prime Minister, a Cabinet drawn from parliament, or collective responsibility, think of the fusion of executive and legislature.