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SS1: GOVERNMENT - 2ND TERM

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  1. Types of Government Continues, Federal and Confederal Systems of Government | Week 1
    7 Topics
    |
    1 Quiz
  2. Forms of Government: Presidential System of Government | Week 2
    4 Topics
    |
    1 Quiz
  3. Forms of Government: Parliamentary System of Government | Week 3
    7 Topics
    |
    1 Quiz
  4. Structure and Organization of Government: Legislature | Week 4
    6 Topics
    |
    1 Quiz
  5. Structure and Organization of Government: Executive | Week 5
    5 Topics
    |
    1 Quiz
  6. Structure and Organization of Government: Judiciary | Week 6
    5 Topics
    |
    1 Quiz
  7. Basic Principles of Government: Political Participation and Political Apathy | Week 7
    5 Topics
    |
    1 Quiz
  8. Basic Principles of Government: Rule of Law and Delegated Legislation | Week 8
    8 Topics
    |
    1 Quiz
  9. Basic Principles of Government: Centralization and Decentralization | Week 9
    4 Topics
    |
    1 Quiz
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Topic Content:

  • Functions of the Opposition Party in a Parliamentary System

In a Parliamentary system, the party with the second highest number of seats in the parliament is legally and officially recognised as the opposition.

The opposition party has the following functions:

1. Acting as a Check: Its primary job is to have a check on government decisions and to constructively oppose proposed laws.

2. Shadow Cabinet: It is the duty of the opposition to play the role of an alternative government and indeed, the role of a government in waiting, if the ruling power fails to deliver. Shadow ministers are appointed by the leader of the opposition and generally take roles that mirror the current government.

3. Criticism: It scrutinizes the work of the ruling party and constructively criticizes proposals laid before the House.

4. Watchdog: The main function of an opposition party is to force the ruling party or the party in power to function properly and fulfil the promises made during the electoral campaign.