Basics of Government

This section looks at the different systems of government and how power is shared and used in a country. It focuses on two main types, unitary and federal systems and how each affects national unity and development. You will also learn why Ghana chose the unitary system of government after gaining independence.

This section connects to what you learned in Year 1 about the meaning of government, especially as an institution of the state. It also reminds you about the constitution and constitutionalism. The constitution shows how a country is set up and how power is shared and used, either through a unitary or federal system.

KEY IDEAS

• Distribution of power in government is a product of existing laws and documents combined with contemporary values and beliefs.

• Governments differ in the geographic distribution of power, particularly unitary and federal.

• Ghana adopted the unitary system of government before the attainment of independence.

A unitary system of government is one in which a single central authority holds all the governing power across the entire country. In this system, either there is only one level of government, or any lower levels (such as regions, provinces, or districts) operate under the control of the central government. The central authority can issue directives to these subnational units, which do not have constitutional independence. While the unitary system is often found in smaller countries, some large nations like China also use it. Other examples of unitary states include Ghana, Senegal, Uganda, the United Kingdom, and Japan.

Features of the Unitary System of Government

The main features of the unitary system of government include the following.

1. The unitary system has a centralised authority, meaning governing powers are concentrated in the central government. It makes decisions for the entire country and controls all aspects of governance, giving limited autonomy to sub-units.

2. It has a single sovereign authority, meaning the central government holds ultimate power and decision-making. No other body can compete with it, as its authority is not divided or shared with other levels of government.

3. The system has uniform laws and policies, meaning the same rules apply across the entire country. This ensures consistency, stability, and simplicity in governance, with little variation between regions.

4. There is an absence of constitutional division of powers between the central government and the sub-national units. Power is concentrated in the centre.

5. It is usually practised in smaller states. This is because it is easy to administer such smaller states from a centralised position.

6. Powers exercised by sub-governmental bodies are delegated to them by the central government. The central government, therefore, has control over the units.

Activity 1.1 Unitary System of Government

1. Look at the empty pyramid diagram below. Fill in the blanks with the correct terms:

Central/National Government and Regional/Provincial. Discuss with your friend how power flows in this system. Your teacher will make further clarifications.

Top of the pyramid: ___________________________ Bottom of the pyramid: ________________________

2. Research at least five key features of the unitary system of government using your textbook, a government website, or online sources. Write them in the

table below.

Feature Notes / Explanation 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Share your findings with a friend and work together to prepare a 3–5 minute presentation for class discussion. Use the guide questions below:

a. Which feature of a unitary system do you think is the most important? Why?

..................................................................................................................................

b. Why do you think some countries choose a unitary system of government?

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Advantages of the Unitary System of

Government The unitary system of government has several advantages that make it suitable for homogeneous countries. Let us look at some of the advantages of this form of government:

1. Prompt decision-making: In a unitary system, the central government makes decisions without needing approval from multiple levels of authority. This allows for faster decision-making and quick implementation of policies. As a result, the government can respond more efficiently to challenges and opportunities, thus promoting administrative efficiency.

2. Uniformity in governance: In a unitary system, the central government makes all the laws for the whole country. This means everyone follows the same rules, no matter where they live. It makes things easier to understand and reduces confusion. People know what to expect, and the government can manage the country more smoothly.

3. Promotes national unity and integration: A unitary government uses the same laws and policies across the whole country. This helps all citizens feel like they are part of one country, not just their local area or region. When everyone follows the same rules and is treated equally by the government, it creates a sense of belonging and togetherness. It also reduces conflicts between different regions because there are no separate laws that might cause unfairness. This shared system helps bring people together and strengthens the idea of being one united country.

4. Clear line of accountability: In a unitary system, the central government is in charge of all decisions. This makes it easy for citizens to know who is responsible for what happens in the country. People can see who to blame or praise for government actions. It also helps them follow what the government is doing and ask questions if needed. This clarity promotes transparency and helps citizens stay informed and engaged in holding the government responsible.

5. Relatively less expensive to operate: A unitary system costs less to run compared to a federal system. This is because there is only one central government, so there’s less need to repeat the same work or spend money on many government offices and staff. With fewer levels of government, the country saves money and uses its resources more efficiently. This makes the system cheaper and easier to manage.

Disadvantages of the Unitary System of

Government The unitary system of government, though efficient, has some disadvantages. These can affect decision-making and how well local needs are met. The disadvantages include, but are not limited to, the following.

1. Potential to promote dictatorship: In a unitary system, power is concentrated in a single central authority. This concentration can increase the risk of authoritarian rule and the abuse of power. Without strong checks and balances, a single leader or group may dominate decision-making, limit public input and threaten individual rights. Over time, this can lead to undemocratic practices and weaken democratic values.

2. Rigid structures and congestion: In a unitary system, the government has a strict and central way of working. This can make it slow to respond to local problems or changes. Because most decisions are made at the top, it can cause delays and confusion. Local leaders may not have the power to solve issues quickly. This can lead to frustration and poor service for citizens.

3. Suppression of local initiatives and innovations: In a unitary system, the central government controls most decisions, which limits the freedom of local areas to act on their own. This can discourage local creativity, new ideas, and solutions that fit specific regional needs. Since the same policies are used everywhere, unique local challenges may be ignored. As a result, people may feel less involved in governance, and chances for local development and innovation may be missed.

Activity 1.2 Advantages and Disadvantages of the Unitary System

1. Research on at least three (3) factors each that influenced the adoption of the unitary system of government in Senegal, Uganda and China. Present your work in the form of a table as seen below. Compare your findings with a friend for feedback.

2.

Factors Influencing the Adoption of the Unitary System of Government Country Factor 1 (Historical context) Factor 2 (Political leadership) Factor 3 (Social cohesion) Senegal Centralised French administration strongly influenced Senegal’s choice of a unitary system Uganda The First President promoted a strong central government to curb regional divisions China A long period of imperial rule created a tradition of central authority The large geographic size and diverse population required centralised governance to maintain national unity

A federal system is a form of government in which power is divided between a central (national) government and various constituent units such as states, provinces, or regions based on constitutional guidelines. This system operates through multiple levels of governance, with each unit retaining a degree of independence to manage its affairs. The constitution assigns specific powers to the national government, such as conducting foreign policy and ensuring national defence. At the same time, certain powers like establishing local governments and providing basic services are reserved for the states or regional/provincial governments. Some responsibilities, such as lawmaking, are shared between both levels of government. Importantly, both the central and state governments are accountable to the people. Countries that operate under a federal system include Nigeria, Brazil, India, and the United States.

Features of the Federal System of Government

Here are some of the main features of the federal system of government: There are two levels of government: the central government, which has control over the entire country and the state or provincial governments with powers and responsibilities over their areas of jurisdiction In a federal system, different levels of government govern the same people, but each level is responsible for specific areas like making laws, collecting taxes, and managing services.

1. In a federal system of government, a constitution clearly defines the powers and responsibilities of each level of government. The constitution is the highest law, and all laws and actions must follow its rules. This ensures that the roles and authority of each level of government are legally protected.

2. Another feature is an independent judiciary, which interprets the constitution and the powers of different levels of government. The highest court settles disputes between different levels of government when there are disagreements about their powers.

3. In a federal system, there is a bicameral national legislature, as well as separate legislatures for each component unit or state, allowing both national and state governments to make laws within their areas of authority.

Activity 1.3 Federal System of Government

1. What, in your view, is the meaning of the federal system of government?

Discuss your responses with a friend. Use a Venn diagram to show the different levels of powers in this system, using the guide below

a. Circle 1: National Government Exclusive Powers (e.g., Defence) Circle 2: State/Regional Governments Residual Powers (e.g., Law Enforcement)

b. Overlapping Section Shared/Concurrent Powers (e.g., Education )

3. Use the internet and other sources to learn about the main features of a federal system of government. Write down important points and prepare a short presentation to discuss in class.

The federal system of government has many advantages, especially for large and diverse countries. These advantages include, but are not limited to, the following:

1. Promotes citizens’ participation in governance: The federal system of government encourages active involvement of citizens in governance. Because power is shared between national and local governments, people can take part in decisions that directly affect their communities. This system increases representation at both local and national levels, giving citizens more chances to be heard. It also allows communities to engage with leaders, contribute ideas, and hold officials accountable for their actions.

2. Reduces the workload at the centre: In a federal system, government powers are shared between the central and local levels. This reduces pressure on the central government, as local governments handle local issues and make decisions without waiting for approval from the top. It allows the central government to focus on national matters while local governments quickly respond to local needs. This division of work makes governance more efficient and responsive.

3. Promotes national unity and local diversity: A federal system supports both unity and diversity. The central government helps keep the country united, while regional governments have the freedom to address their own local needs. This allows different cultures, languages, and traditions to be respected and preserved.

By balancing national goals with local interests, the system encourages peace, cooperation, and a stronger sense of belonging for all citizens.

4. Safeguards the autonomy and rights of citizens: Federalism helps protect the rights of different groups, especially ethnic and minority communities.

Regional governments have the power to make decisions that meet the unique needs of their people. By spreading power across different levels, federalism reduces the risk of oppression or unfair treatment. This creates a fairer and more inclusive society where all groups feel respected and represented.

5. Reduces the potential for dictatorship: In a federal system, power is shared between the central and regional governments. This makes it harder for one person or group to take full control. The separation of powers acts as a check on the central government, helping to prevent abuse of power. This creates a more balanced and accountable system that protects democracy and citizens’ rights.

Disadvantages of the Federal System of

Government The federal system of government, although it supports power sharing and local self- rule, also comes with certain drawbacks. These disadvantages include the following:

1. Delays in decision-making: In a federal system, decisions often need approval from both national and regional governments. This can cause delays, especially when there are disagreements or slow coordination between the levels. As a result, it may take longer to respond to emergencies or put policies into action.

These delays can frustrate citizens and reduce the effectiveness of government services.

2. More expensive form of government: A federal system is more costly to run compared to a unitary system. This is because it has multiple levels of government, which can lead to duplication of roles, more personnel, and extra administrative structures. Coordinating activities across these levels can be complicated and increase expenses. As a result, federal systems can be harder to manage and less efficient.

3. Prone to conflicts between levels of government: In a federal system, the central and regional/provincial governments may have overlapping or unclear responsibilities. This can lead to disagreements, especially over who controls what and how resources are shared. Such conflicts can create tension and slow down government work. If not resolved, they can weaken cooperation and reduce the overall effectiveness of governance.

4. Potential duplication of government functions: In a federal system, both the central and regional/provincial governments may perform similar roles or offer the same services. This can lead to unnecessary duplication, wasting resources and creating confusion. It may also result in a larger and more costly bureaucracy, placing extra financial pressure on taxpayers. Such duplication can reduce the efficiency and effectiveness of government operations.

Activity 1.4 Advantages and Disadvantages of Federalism

1. In pairs, research the federal system of government in Nigeria, focusing on instances where state laws have conflicted with federal laws (e.g., the implementation of grazing laws). Prepare a ten-minute presentation for class discussion based on your findings. You may use https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/may/27/nigeria-attacks- benue?utm_source=chatgpt.com for the full story.

2. Based on point 1 and working in a group of not more than four, write down the advantages and disadvantages of the federal system of government on sticky notes (Post-it notes). Display them on the classroom wall or board for feedback and discussion.

Ghana operates under a unitary system of government, where power is centralised in the national government. This system was deliberately chosen at independence and reaffirmed in subsequent constitutions as the most suitable form of governance for the country. The decision to adopt a unitary system was influenced by several historical, political, and social factors unique to Ghana’s development. Understanding these reasons helps explain how Ghana’s governance structure supports national unity, effective administration, and political stability.

Let’s explore some of the main reasons why Ghana adopted this form of government:

1. Ghana’s small geographical size: Ghana, with a total land area of approximately 238,535 km² and a population of about 6 million at independence, influenced Ghana’s founders’ preference for a unitary rather than federal system. Because the country was not too large, it was easier to manage from a central government.

This made a unitary system more suitable, as it allowed effective administration without making citizens feel far from government services.

2. Promoting national integration and unity: At independence, Kwame Nkrumah and the Convention People’s Party (CPP) focused on building a strong, united nation. They believed that a unitary system would help bring together Ghana’s different ethnic and religious groups by reducing regional divisions.

This system was seen as key to creating a shared national identity and ensuring peace, stability, and development in the new country.

3. Administrative efficiency: At independence, Ghana did not have the resources to support the high costs of a federal system. Creating separate regional governments would have meant more administrative positions and higher expenses. The unitary system was more affordable and allowed for quicker decision-making and consistent programme implementation across the country.

4. Colonial legacy/historical inheritance: Before independence, Ghana was governed under a centralised colonial system. When the country gained independence in 1957, this existing structure made it easier to continue with a unitary system. Keeping the centralised model ensured a smoother transition to self-rule and avoided the difficulties of setting up a new federal system during the early stages of nation-building.

5. Recommendation of the Bourne Commission: In 1955, the British set up the Frederick Bourne Commission to decide the best system of government for the soon-to-be independent Gold Coast. After careful study and consultations, the Commission recommended a unitary system. This helped shape Ghana’s choice to adopt a centralised form of governance at independence.

6. Other reasons for adopting the unitary system of government include avoidance of ethnic and regional-based politics, limited administrative capacity and not enough trained personnel to manage multiple levels of government, and uneven distribution of natural resources across Ghana’s administrative regions.

Activity 1.5 Unitary System in Ghana

1. Form a group of not more than four with other classmates and prepare a one-page debate to present in class with another group on the motion: “A unitary system is the most suitable form of government for Ghana.”

Use the steps below as a guide for your write-up:

a. Introduction – Introduce the topic and state your position.

b. Body – If supporting the motion, discuss the advantages of a unitary system; if opposing, explain the disadvantages.

c. Conclusion – Summarise your main points and restate your position clearly.