By Lilian Mapesa and Josephine Opar

Recently, students in Dr. Njoki Wamai’s Introduction to Political Science class, held a debate on the need for transition from hybrid presidential-parliamentary government to a presidential system. With POLIAN (a fictional nation created from the initials of their name) as the basis, the students explored the issues faced by the nation like unemployment, political instability, and corruption, all of which mirror challenges observed in the students’ real home countries.

While the class has collectively been reading the textbook, Understanding Politics: Ideas, Institutions, and Issues, and other pieces of literature to solidify their knowledge, this debate gave them an avenue to apply all they have learnt.

To set the scene, students received a brief overview of the country, POLJAN, and a refresher on the difference between a presidential and parliamentary system. They learnt that while the president, who is elected separately from the legislature, is both the head of state and the head of government in a presidential system, executive branch derives its legitimacy and is accountable to the legislature (parliament) in a parliamentary system. The head of government usually the prime minister is chosen from the legislature and remains in power as long as they have the support of the majority in parliament.

Additionally, they discussed the merits and demerits of both systems of governments. The advantages of the presidential system include direct election and separation of powers, ensuring that the will of the people is represented and that one arm of the government does not abuse its power through checks and balances. For example, the US Congress can overrule a presidential veto with a two-thirds vote in the House and Senate. Meanwhile, parliamentary systems feature a fusion of powers, accountability, and quick decision-making. For example, in 2016, after the United Kingdom voted to leave the European Union, the Prime Minister, David Cameron, resigned, and the ruling party of the House selected a new leader, Theresa May. This case demonstrates the swiftness of decision-making in parliamentary systems, especially in times of crisis.

On the other hand, the demerits of the presidential system include executive overreach, gridlock, and winner-take-all politics. As for the parliamentary system, potential instability due to changing prime ministers, as seen in Britain, is a notable disadvantage. Four leaders have held the prime minister position in the UK between 2000 and 2025.

As the discussions progressed, it was noted that understanding the importance of different government systems impacts citizens' freedoms and responsibilities. Ignorance and lack of political participation impede progress and timely changes that citizens need to exist as their fullest selves. If people understand the system, they can confidently advocate for their needs.

Students did not waste time showing their conspicuous support for arguments that aligned with their beliefs by stomping their feet in agreement and clapping on occasion. The debate helped the students to find their footing in public speaking, learn to remain logical rather than getting emotional, enhanced their understanding, sharpened their reasoning, and deepened their awareness of the intricate balance between representation and efficiency in leadership

Proponents of the presidential system of government in POLJAN won by two votes (14-12), but the real victory was walking out of class having challenged their thinking and sharpened our debate skills. “The exercise was insightful. I feel like I have a better understanding of the concepts that were debated in my role as a judge,” stated Nicole Kagiri.

Politics touches every facet of life and learning, so sign up for a politics class and empower yourself.