Which of the following systems of government operates on the checks and balances?

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks which system of government uses "checks and balances." This means each arm of government (Executive, Legislature, Judiciary) can limit the powers of the others so that no single arm becomes too powerful.

Step 2: Explain the concept Checks and balances flow from the separation of powers, a principle associated with Baron de Montesquieu. The three arms are kept distinct in personnel and function, but each has some power over the others.

Examples (as in the United States and Nigeria):

• The President can veto bills passed by the legislature.
• The legislature can override a veto, approve appointments, and impeach the President.
• The judiciary can declare laws or executive actions unconstitutional.

Step 3: Evaluate each option

• A. Theocracy: Power is based on religious authority, with religious leaders ruling in the name of God. It has no formal checks and balances.
• B. Presidential: The Executive, Legislature, and Judiciary are separate and check one another. This is the classic home of checks and balances.
• C. Parliamentary: The Executive (Prime Minister and Cabinet) is drawn from the legislature. This is a fusion of powers, so checks and balances are weak or limited.
• D. Monarchical: Power rests with a king or queen, often hereditary. In an absolute monarchy there are no checks at all.

Step 4: Answer The presidential system is the one that operates on checks and balances.

Exam tip: Link the keywords:

• Separation of powers and checks and balances → Presidential
• Fusion of powers → Parliamentary

Remember "President = Practically separated powers."