Government Definition

"a system of social control under which the right to make laws, and the right to enforce them, is
vested in a particular group in society".

he group of people with the authority to govern a country or state; a particular ministry in office

Democracy
The Overall Concept of Democracy Democracy originated more than 2,400 years ago in ancient
Greece. The word “democracy” means “rule by the people.” While this definition tells us that the
citizens of a democracy govern their nation, it omits essential parts of the idea of democracy as
practiced in countries around the world. The principal purposes for which the People establish
democratic government are the protection and promotion of their rights, interests, and welfare.
Democracy requires that each individual be free to participate in the political community’s self-
government. Thus political freedom lies at the heart of the concept of democracy. The overall
concept of modern democracy has three principal parts: “democracy,” “constitutional ism,” and
“liberalism.” Each must exist in a political system for it to be a genuine democracy
Democracy— Rule by the People through free and fair elections and other forms of
participation

• Popular sovereignty—the idea that the People are the ultimate authority and the source of
the authority of government—is a fundamental principle of democracy.
• The political equality of all citizens is an essential principle of democracy.
• In a democracy, the just powers of government are based upon the consent of the governed.
• Free elections and other forms of civic participation are essential to democracy.
1. If the People are to rule, they must have practical means of determining who shall exercise
political power on their behalf.
2. If they are to rule, the People must also monitor and influence officials’ behavior while in
office.
3. Elections are at the heart of the practical means for the People to assert their sovereignty.

• Elections in themselves do not fulfill the requirement of modern democracies; they must
be free, fair, and sufficiently frequent if the People’s will is to have effect. “
1. Free elections” means all adult citizens can vote in elections and stand for office.
Candidates for office are not in any way blocked from addressing the electorate.
2. “Fair elections” means elections that are fundamentally honest. Voters must not be stopped
from voting and all votes must be accurately counted.
3. “Frequent elections” means that elections must be held often enough to enable the People
to exercise their control of government.

• As overseers of government, the People must have alternative sources of information.

 1. No single source, especially an official government source, is sufficient.
2. Freedom of the press is therefore an essential aspect of democratic government.

Constitutionalism—The use of constitutions to limit government by law

• The People do not give power to government to oppress or abuse, but rather to protect their
fundamental rights, interests, and welfare. Therefore they limit government power by
authoritative fundamental laws called “constitutions.” In every democracy, with three
exceptions (Britain, Israel, and New Zealand), the constitution is a written document.
• Constitutions are the means used to state what powers government shall have. In defining
these powers, constitutions limit them. This is so because governments may exercise only
the powers defined in the constitution.
• Constitutional government is government that as a practical matter is limited both in what
it does and how it acts.
• Government is limited to acting within the law and cannot make up rules to suit its con
venience. The law applies to everyone, including those who govern. No one is above the
law.
• An essential means of limiting government is establishing a rule of law, beginning with the
constitution itself, which is a fundamental law. Thus the rule of law is a primary element
of constitutionalism.

• The judiciary in political systems such as Germany and the United States has the power of
judicial review in order to enforce constitutionalism.
1. “Judicial review” refers to the power of the courts to declare laws passed by legislatures to
be null and void if they contradict the nation’s constitution.
2. In these judicial systems, the rule of law begins with the rule of the most fundamental law,
the constitution.
• Some legal systems employ further means to establish limited, “constitutional,” govern
ment. A “bill of rights” in constitutions, which, combined with judicial review, ensure that
the legislation, legal decisions, and acts of government officials do not violate basic rights.
Liberalism—Freedom, equality, and dignity of the individual

• Liberal democracy recognizes the moral primacy of the individual and that all persons have
certain fundamental rights. A central purpose of democracy is to protect these rights in the
practical world of everyday life. Examples of these fundamental rights are
1. Freedom of religion/conscience—the right to practice any religion or none.
2. Political freedom—the equal right, for example, of all citizens to participate in choosing
those who govern and to remove them at will through elections.
3. Freedom of the press, including electronic media.
4. Freedom of individual expression—orally, in writing, and symbolically.
5. Right to privacy and to a private sphere of life free from governmental interference.
 6. Right to freedom of association in public and private.

Merits of Democracy:

1. Representation: Democracy ensures that the government is representative of the people’s

will, allowing citizens to choose their leaders through free and fair elections.
2. Protection of Rights: It safeguards individual freedoms and human rights, allowing for
expression, dissent, and equal participation in governance.
3. Accountability: Elected officials are accountable to the public, encouraging transparency
and responsibility in governance.
4. Conflict Resolution: It provides a peaceful means to resolve conflicts and differences
through dialogue and democratic institutions.
5. Participation: Citizens are actively involved in the decision-making process, fostering
civic engagement and political awareness.

Demerits of Democracy:

1. Slow Decision-Making: The need for broad consensus can lead to slow policy
implementation, especially in urgent situations.
2. Potential for Populism: Leaders may focus on popular, short-term solutions instead of
long-term national interest.
3. Majority Rule: The majority’s will can sometimes override the interests and rights of
minorities, leading to potential marginalization.
4. Voter Manipulation: Misinformation or biased media can sway public opinion, affecting
the quality of electoral choices.
5. Inefficiency: Excessive bureaucracy and political gridlock can make governance
inefficient and prone to corruption.

Monocracy

The definition of monarchy is a form of government with a monarch at its head. A monarch can
be a king, a queen, an emperor, an empress, or any other different type of monarch throughout
history. So, what is a monarch? A monarch is a person who rules over a country for life or until
they abdicate. In order to be a monarch, one must self-identify as one and also be formally
recognized. Monarchies used to be much more common in the past. In recent centuries, increased
support for democracy has eliminated a large number of monarchies. However, some countries
continue to be ruled by dictators: strongmen who use force to keep themselves in power for life.
Dictators are usually not considered monarchs, but there are plenty of similarities between the two.

Characteristics of Monocracy:
 1. Centralized Power: All governing authority is held by one person or a central entity.
2. Lack of Accountability: The ruler is not answerable to the people, and there are few, if
any, mechanisms to check their power
3. Authoritarian Rule: The government often imposes strict controls over political
opposition, freedom of speech, and civil liberties.
4. Suppression of Dissent: In monocracies, dissent or opposition is often suppressed through
legal or extralegal means, such as censorship, imprisonment, or violence.
5. Absence of Free Elections: The leadership in monocracies is usually not elected through
free and fair elections; instead, power may be inherited, seized by force, or maintained
through manipulation

Types of Monocracy

Dictatorship: A system where one individual (the dictator) exerts total control over the
government. This leader typically rises to power through a military coup or other undemocratic
means. Dictatorships often rely on force to maintain control, suppressing political opposition and
dissent.

Example: Nazi Germany under Adolf Hitler.

Absolute Monarchy: A government system in which a monarch (king or queen) holds

unrestricted, supreme authority, not bound by laws or a constitution. This power is typically
inherited, passed down through royal lineage.

Example: The monarchy in Saudi Arabia.

Despotism: A form of governance where a single ruler governs with oppressive or tyrannical
power. The despot controls all aspects of the state and often rules through fear, coercion, and
violence to maintain dominance.

Example: The rule of ancient Egyptian Pharaohs or some historical sultans.

Theocratic Monocracy: A type of government where a single religious leader claims both
political and spiritual authority, often ruling under the belief that their power is divinely ordained.
This leader’s decisions are seen as religiously sanctioned and binding.

Example: Iran under the Supreme Leader.

Benevolent Dictatorship: A system in which one ruler has absolute control but uses that power
with the stated intention of benefiting the people. While civil liberties may be restricted, the ruler
focuses on ensuring political stability and economic growth.
Example: Lee Kuan Yew's leadership in Singapore.

A dictatorship is a form of government in which all (or nearly all) of the ruling power is possessed
by one person or one ruling entity. This absolute power is often enforced through extreme measures
and may come with laws viewed as rather strict by other forms of government. It is also worth
noting that the person or entity with the ruling power often is not held accountable by
Constitutional limitations or other governing bodies.

The History Behind Dictatorships

A dictatorship is a more recent form of government as far as world history goes, not rising to
prominence until the 19th and 20th centuries. However, it was during this time that it became one
of the top two forms of government around the globe, the other being constitutional democracy.
This was, in large part, due to the rapid decline of monarchies. Latin America specifically saw a
rise in dictatorships after Spain relinquished its rule of their former colonies. Most dictators at this
time were military officers or privatized army leaders who easily overtook the new and unstable
governments and appointed themselves in office. Similarly in Africa after World War II, weakened
African governments that had seen their connections and aid from Western nations lowered
considerably were then overthrown by self-appointed military dictators.

Still, some of the best known dictators in history were the totalitarian dictators during World War
II (totalitarianism is where the state seeks to control nearly every aspect of life for its citizens).
Adolf Hitler, for example, rose to power as dictator of Nazi Germany after the country’s economy
was considerably weakened in the first world war. He remains infamous for having been at the
center of the Holocaust and World War II. Rather than be tried for crimes against humanity or
be assassinated like numerous other dictators before him, Hitler took his own life at the end of the
war.

Modern Dictatorships

Though dictatorships are no longer nearly as prevalent as they once were thanks to the growth of
parliamentary republics and democracies (among other forms of government), there are still some
in existence today. However, the true number of them may be difficult to measure, since what
some may consider a dictator may be considered a democratically elected leader by others (Russian
president Vladimir Putin is one example). Still, one of the best known modern day dictators is
North Korea’s Kim Jong-Un, who took power in 2011 after the death of the country’s former
dictator, his father Kim Jong-Il.

Merits of Monocracy and Dictatorship:

 1. Efficiency in Decision-Making: A dictatorship or monocracy can act swiftly in
implementing decisions, as there is no need for long deliberations or approval from
multiple branches of government.
2. Stability: Dictatorships can provide political stability, especially in regions prone to
chaos or internal conflict. A strong, centralized leader can prevent fragmentation.
3. Clear Leadership: With a single ruler in charge, the chain of command is clear, and
there’s no confusion over who holds power.
4. Potential for Economic Growth: In some cases, authoritarian regimes can rapidly
develop the economy by making centralized decisions about industrialization or
development projects, as seen in countries like China.
5. Control of Resources: A dictator or monocratic leader can allocate resources in a way
that they deem most efficient or in line with their vision for national growth, potentially
benefiting certain sectors.

Demerits of Monocracy and Dictatorship:

1. Lack of Accountability: Since power is concentrated in one person or a small group,

there is little to no accountability, which can lead to corruption and abuse of power.
2. Suppression of Freedoms: Dictatorships often curtail civil liberties, including freedom
of speech, press, and assembly, leading to oppression of dissenting voices.
3. Risk of Tyranny: With no checks and balances, dictators may become tyrannical, using
power for personal gain or to eliminate perceived threats.
4. Lack of Innovation: Without open debate and criticism, creativity and innovation may
be stifled. Fear of reprisal can prevent people from presenting new ideas or solutions.
5. Unstable Transitions: When a dictator dies or is removed, the lack of clear succession
plans can result in power struggles, instability, or even civil war.
6. International Isolation: Dictatorships often face sanctions or isolation from the
international community, which can limit economic opportunities and diplomatic
relations.

Structure of Government in Pakistan

The government structure of Pakistan is established as a federal parliamentary republic,
characterized by a separation of powers among the executive, legislative, and judicial branches.
Here’s a detailed overview:

1. Executive Branch

• President: The President serves as the ceremonial head of state and is elected for a five-
year term by an electoral college consisting of the members of both houses of Parliament
and the provincial assemblies. The President’s role is largely ceremonial, with powers
primarily focused on constitutional functions and representation. Elected by the national
assembly, 4 provincial assemblies and senate of the Pakistan.
• Prime Minister: The Prime Minister is the head of government, elected by the National
Assembly. The Prime Minister exercises significant executive authority, leading the
Cabinet and formulating government policy. The Prime Minister is responsible for the
 day-to-day administration of the government, making appointments, and overseeing
ministries.

2. Legislative Branch

• Parliament: Pakistan’s Parliament is bicameral, consisting of:

o National Assembly: This lower house is comprised of members directly elected by
the public through general elections. The National Assembly holds substantial
legislative power, including the authority to make laws, approve budgets, and
scrutinize the government.(342 total members, 266 provincial seats and 60 women
seats and 10 seats reserved for religious minorities)
o Senate: The Senate serves as the upper house, with members elected by the
provincial assemblies for six-year terms. The Senate ensures provincial
representation in the federal legislative process and participates in the legislative
process alongside the National Assembly. Current 96 members

3. Judicial Branch

• Supreme Court: Chief Justice: The Chief Justice of Pakistan is the head of the Supreme
Court and has significant influence over court proceedings and administrative matters. The
Chief Justice is appointed by the President of Pakistan based on seniority among judges.
The Supreme Court comprises a total of 17 judges, including the Chief Justice. The judges
are appointed by the President of Pakistan following consultation with the Chief Justice.
The appointments are generally based on seniority and merit.

• High Courts: Each province has its own high court, which deals with appeals from lower
courts and has jurisdiction over certain legal matters. ( 13 judges and chief justice
appointed by the president)
• Lower Courts: The judiciary also includes various lower courts, such as district courts,
which handle civil and criminal cases.

4. Provincial Government

• Pakistan is divided into four provinces: Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and
Baluchistan. Each province has its own government structure:
o Chief Minister: Elected by the provincial assembly, the Chief Minister acts as the
head of the provincial government, similar to the Prime Minister at the federal
level.
o Governor: Appointed by the President, the Governor represents the federal
government in the province and has certain constitutional powers.

5. Local Government

• Local governments are established at the district, tehsil (sub-district), and union council
levels. They are responsible for local administration and governance, enabling
 communities to manage their affairs. Local bodies are elected and have authority over
various local issues, including education, health, and infrastructure

Local government types

District level head by the mayor

Tehsil level Municipality headed by tehsil Nazim

Union council level

Role of executive , judiciary and legislature

1. Legislature (Law-making Body)

Role:

• The legislature is responsible for drafting, debating, amending, and passing laws that
govern the country.
• It represents the voice of the people, as legislators are typically elected by the populace.
• Beyond law-making, legislatures often have responsibilities related to the national budget
(taxation, spending) and oversight of the executive branch through inquiries,
investigations, and the confirmation of appointments.
• Legislatures also have the power to amend the constitution in many democracies and
ratify international treaties.

Key Functions:

• Representation: Legislators represent the will of the people.

• Law-making: Drafting, debating, and enacting legislation.
• Oversight: Monitoring the executive’s actions, often through committees.
• Budgetary Control: Legislatures approve the national budget and fiscal policies.

2. Executive (Law-implementing Body)

Role:

• The executive branch is responsible for the day-to-day administration of government and
the implementation of laws passed by the legislature.
 • The head of the executive branch is often a president or prime minister, depending on the
system (presidential or parliamentary). In democratic systems, executives are accountable
to the public, either directly or indirectly through the legislature.
• Executives are tasked with enforcing laws, conducting foreign policy, commanding the
military, and overseeing the bureaucracy.

Key Functions:

• Enforcement of Laws: Implementing and enforcing the laws passed by the legislature.
• Foreign Policy: Managing relationships with other nations, including treaties and
diplomacy.
• Administration: Overseeing government agencies and public administration.
• Emergency Powers: In times of national crises, the executive can take on additional
powers for the safety and security of the state.

3. Judiciary (Law-interpreting Body)

Role:

• The judiciary interprets the laws and ensures that they are applied in individual cases.
• Courts have the authority to review the constitutionality of laws and executive actions
(judicial review).
• They are responsible for resolving disputes between individuals, institutions, and
government bodies.
• The judiciary acts as a crucial check on the power of both the legislature and the
executive by ensuring that their actions are in accordance with the constitution.

Key Functions:

• Interpretation of Laws: Interpreting and applying statutes to individual cases.

• Judicial Review: Determining the constitutionality of laws or executive actions.
• Dispute Resolution: Settling legal disputes between individuals, organizations, and the
state.
• Protector of Rights: Safeguarding the rights and liberties of citizens by ensuring laws do
not violate the constitution.