Describe the functions of the Prime Minister in a cabinet system of government.

Answer Details

Functions of the Prime Minister in a cabinet system of government

1. Head of government: The Prime Minister is the chief executive who directs and controls the general policy and administration of the state.
2. Formation of the cabinet: He appoints ministers into the cabinet from among members of parliament and assigns them their portfolios; he can also reshuffle or dismiss them.
3. Presiding over cabinet meetings: He summons, chairs and directs the deliberations of the cabinet and coordinates the work of the various ministries.
4. Chief adviser to the Head of State: He advises the ceremonial Head of State (monarch or president) and is the main link between the government and the Head of State.
5. Leader of his party and of parliament: He is the leader of the majority party in the legislature and leads government business on the floor of the House.
6. Spokesman of the government: He explains and defends government policies both at home and abroad and represents the nation in international affairs.
7. Making of appointments: He advises on and makes key appointments to important public offices.
8. Advising dissolution of parliament: He may advise the Head of State to dissolve parliament and call fresh general elections.