Merits and Demerits of Federal System of Government

Merits of Federal System of Government:

(i) It promotes unity in diversity.

(ii) It facilitates otherwise small and weaker states to come together and form a strong state

(iii) It prevents the central government from arbitraryAn arbitrary rule, action or decision often seems unfair because it is not based on any principle, plan or system. An arbitrary legal judgment is a decision made at the discretion... More use of power and violation of fundamental human rights.

(iv) It promotes rapid development as component units develop according to their pace and the resources at their disposal.

(v) It brings the government close to the people.

(vi) It promotes political stability as sources of friction are removed.

(vii) Federalism promotes wider participation of the citizens in government.

(viii) It allays the fear of domination of minority groups by majority groups.

Demerits of Federal System of Government:

(i) There is a problem with the revenue-sharing formula that all the component units will accept, which creates conflict.

(ii) Antagonism or unhealthy rivalry and competition among the ethnic groups.

(iii) It is expensive to operate.

(iv) Duplication of departments and functions promotes inefficiency and makes the system expensive to run.

(v) Decision-making is slow due to extensive consultation.

(vi) The federating units always agitate for the creation of more states and local governments.

(vii) Constitutional amendments are difficult due to the rigid conditions necessary for amendment.

(viii) The minority groups always complain of marginalization.

(ix) The states often accuse the central government of limited revenue, therefore, depriving states and local governments of funds.

(x) There is always the problem of corruption, bribery, favouritism, nepotismNepotism is the act of granting an advantage, privilege, or position to relatives or close friends in an occupation or field. These fields may include but are not limited to: business,... More, sectionalism etc.

(xi) There is always a problem of conditioning a reliable and acceptable census that all units will accept.