The Doctrine of the Principles of Separation of Power

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NAME: GAFAR MOHAMMED MUEEZ QUESTION: The doctrine of the principles of separation of power INTRODUCTION The doctrine of separation of powers is one of the means by which the principles of the constitution are maintained. In every human society, reason dictates that the various functions of the state should not be concentrated in the hands of one person or the same body of persons. Where one person to concentrate on his hands the various functions of the state, it could be impossible for his reason to encompass their plenitude and amplitude. This could lead to bad governance. Therefore, it has always been desirable that the various affairs of the state be shared between equal and coordinate bodies. Again, were one person allowed to concentrate all powers in his hands, the spirit of power could move against the common good and the donee of such power could soon see himself above all and treat them like tools. This is why it is desirable to provide for the doctrine of separation of powers in every jurisdiction. This doctrine, which is of old origin, has continued to dominate the political life of every democratic society. Therefore, it is essential to ask, what is the origin of this doctrine? THE ORIGIN OF THE DOCTRINE OF SEPARATION OF POWER The doctrine of separation of powers finds its roots in the ancient world. Then the precepts of governmental functions and the theory of fixed and balanced government developed. The doctrine came to the limelight in 17th century England for the first time as a coherent theory of government, clearly set out, and urged as the secret of liberty and good government (Vile, 1967:3). But as the doctrine is understood today, it was popularised by a French jurist, Baron de Montesquieu in his work, The Spirit of Laws. He advocated that different persons should perform different functions of government because, ‘To be at once a

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