Editorial
The legislature is one of the three branches of government in a parliamentary form of governance, along with the executive and the judiciary. The legislature makes laws, represents the people, and oversees the executive. The executive is responsible for implementing laws, administering the state, and conducting foreign relations. The judiciary is responsible for interpreting laws, resolving disputes, and protecting rights. Each branch has its powers and functions, but also checks and balances each other to ensure accountability and democracy.
The legislature derives its legitimacy from the people, who elect their representatives through free and fair elections. In a parliamentary system, the executive is usually formed by the majority party or coalition in the legislature and depends on its confidence and support. The judiciary is appointed by the executive, with the legislature’s approval, and is expected to be independent and impartial. Therefore, the legislature is the most direct expression of popular sovereignty and democratic will.
The legislature has the authority to make laws on various subjects, such as taxation, defence, education, health, etc. Then, in a federal form of governance, the federal and provincial legislatures make laws as per the division of powers primarily protected in the Constitution. The executive has the authority to execute and enforce laws, as well as to formulate policies and budgets. The judiciary has the authority to adjudicate legal matters and to review the constitutionality and validity of laws and executive actions. Therefore, the legislature has the widest range of authority and influence over various aspects of governance.
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The legislature is vital in holding the executive accountable for its performance and actions. The legislature can question, debate, criticize, investigate, and censure the executive through various mechanisms, such as parliamentary questions, committees, motions of no confidence, etc. The judiciary can also hold the executive accountable by striking down its unlawful or unconstitutional acts or decisions. Then, in federations, most of the judiciaries have legislative and executive reviews. Therefore, the legislature is the primary watchdog of the executive and ensures its responsiveness and responsibility to the people.
The legislature is a significant branch of government in a parliamentary form of governance, as it reflects the voice of the people, exercises broad legislative power, and ensures executive accountability. However, this does not mean that the executive and the judiciary are less important or less significant. All three branches are essential for a balanced and effective system of governance that respects the rule of law, protects human rights, and promotes public welfare. Accordingly, Pakistan must also ensure the supremacy of the parliament while keeping the checks and balances applied.
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