Checks and Balances: Presidential System of Government

Indeed, it is a fiction to talk of separation of powers in a presidential system as the three branches of government interact with one another in diverse ways in order to ensure the smooth operation of government. Such instances of cooperation or balancing acts are ironically examples of checks and balances.

Difference Between Parliamentary and Presidential System of Government

A presidential government is one in which there is an executive president,  with all executive powers and who combines the office of the of state and head of government while a parliamentary system of government, a clear distinction is made between the head of the state and the head of government. Here, the head of the state. King or Queen in Britain or President in India possesses nominal or titular authority whereas the real authority rests with the government of which the Prime Minister is the head.

Features of the Presidential System of Government

In a presidential system of government, the President is both the ceremonial and executive head of state. That is, the president combines the offices of Head of State and Head of Government at the same time. In this regard, the President performs a number of functions. In particular, he enforces all laws, serves as the Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces, appoints important political office holders and grants pardon and mercy to offenders.