Question

Distinguish between the cabinet and the Council of Ministers?? [4 marks]........

Answer 1

The Cabinet is the small body of the Council, comprising of the most experienced and influential members formed to discuss and decide policies of government. Council of Ministers is the body that advises the President on various matters and is formed to assist the Prime Minister in running Government.
Body Formerly, it was not a constitutional body but after amendment in the Act, in 1978, the cabinet got the constitutional status. Constitutional Body
Size Consist of 15-18 ministers. Consist of 40-60 ministers.
Division It is a sub part of the council. Council of ministers is divided into four categories including cabinet.
Meeting Frequently held. Rarely held.
Collective Functions Several collective functions No collective functions
Policy making Performed by Cabinet. Not performed by the council.
Decisions Takes policy decisions, and supervises its implementation. Implements the decisions taken by the cabinet.
Responsibility Enforces collective responsibility of the council to the lower chamber. Collectively responsible to the lower house of Parliament.
Powers Exercises powers and acts on behalf of the council. Vested with all the powers, but in theory.
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