The functions of the Prime Minister under the 1965 independence constitution of The Gambia

THE FUNCTIONS OF THE PRIME MINISTER UNDER THE 1965 INDEPENDENT CONSTITUTION OF THE GAMBIA

Introduction

The Gambia became a politically independent country with effect from 18^th February, 1965, having been granted independent status by the British colonial powers. Under the new constitution, the Queen of England remained the Head of State, represented by a Governor, a British national.

The constitution made provision for the position of a Governor-General. Mr. John Warburton Paul was appointed as the Governor-General but the Prime Minster, Mr. Dawda Jawara, whose party won majority of the seats, was appointed as such.

  

FUNCTIONS OF THE PRIME MINISTER

Head of Government

The Prime Minister was the Head of Government. He was responsible for the day-to-day administration of the country. In a presidential system of government, the Prime Minister would have been designated as the President.

Appointment of Ministers

It was one of the functions of the Prime Minister under the 1965 independent constitution to appoint ministers to serve in his government. He could also assign them to various portfolios. He had the power to transfer them from one ministry to the other or even to dismiss them on grounds of incompetence or misbehaviour.

Formulation of policies

With the assistance of his Cabinet Ministers, the Prime Minister was responsible for the formulation of major policies. These policies were to ensure the social and economic development of the nation.

Implementation of policies

As the Head of Government, he was responsible for the implementation of the policies approved by the House of Representatives. He was assisted by the country’s Civil Service. He ensured that law and order was enforced and he was assisted by the nation’s Police Force.

Coordinator of ministries

As the Head of Government, the Prime Minister was responsible for the coordination of the activities of the various ministers. The ministers were appointed by him and he runs the government of the day so he had to ensure that the activities of the various ministries gel into the over-all policy of the government.

Reported to the Governor-General

The Prime Minister was under an obligation to report to the Governor-General about the things that government is engaged in. In other words, he informed the Governor-General about the activities of his government and also takes the opinion of the Governor-General on important matters to his cabinet.

Spokesman of his party

As the leader of the majority party in the House of Representatives, he acted as the party's spokesman. He addressed the members of the party at very important party ceremonies.

SAMPLE QUESTION(S)

1. Discuss six major functions of the Prime Minister under the 1965 independent constitution of The Gambia.

ALSO READ:
The features of the 1965 independent constitution of The Gambia
The functions of the Governor-General under the independent constitution of The Gambia

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