Wednesday, July 16, 2014

MILF: Editorial -- Checks and Balance

Posted to the MILF Website (Jul 16): Editorial -- Checks and Balance

Checks and balance is a principle whereby separate branches of government are empowered to prevent actions by other branches and are induced to share power.
  
The Greek historian Polybius analyzed the ancient Roman mixed constitution under three main divisions: monarchy (represented by the consul); aristocracy (the Senate); and democracy (the people). He greatly influenced later ideas about the separation of powers. Today, the principle is applied primarily in constitutional governments. They are of fundamental importance in tripartite governments, such as that of the United States, which separate powers among legislative, executive, and judicial branches.

There is no perfect form or system of government. Even the so-called democracy, there is no one set of model. Even the Communists called their system democracy. This is the reason why Islam did not prescribe any particular model. It merely set the principle or mode of choosing leaders in whatever way best suits the needs and customs of our current situation. Generally described, however, wise or eminent persons, a sort of collegial body, choose the prospective head of state, then call him for the offer, and upon acceptance, the people are gathered for their acceptance. An oath of allegiance by the people ensues.

In modern context, this principle of checks and balance is proved to be effective in many ways in curbing human tendency to abuse power and covet the resources of the state. However, if this principle is applied to extreme, it will result in the paralysis of the state. And more seriously, when this crisis prolongs it invites, usually the military, to seize power. We see this in Egypt, in Thailand, in Myanmar, and scores of countries especially in Africa. Over the Supreme Court (SC) ruling against the Disbursement Acceleration Program (DAP), we are feeling the heat of the flip side of the system in our midst today.

Of course, the MILF will not take a position in this controversy, except to make an appeal to all parties to resolve the conflict in favor of the higher cause of the country. The longer the controversy stays the larger chances of complications to ensue.

We also appeal to all and sundry not to put more fuel to what is already burning. A divided nation will not fare well especially in the face of external enemy knocking at our door. Come to think of it!

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/editorial/item/1091-checks-and-balance

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