What is the concept of "checks and balances" in government?

The concept of "checks and balances" in government refers to a system designed to ensure that no single branch of government becomes too powerful. This framework is rooted in the separation of powers, where the government is divided into distinct branches—typically the legislative, executive, and judicial branches. Each branch has specific powers and responsibilities, and importantly, the ability to monitor and limit the actions of the other branches.

For example, while the legislative branch makes laws, the executive branch is responsible for enforcing them, and the judicial branch interprets the laws. If one branch attempts to overreach its authority, the others have the power to intervene. This mechanism serves to protect the rights of citizens and uphold democratic principles by preventing any potential abuse of power.

In contrast, the other options tackle different aspects of governance. While the elected leaders and the sharing of power are important tenets of democracy, they do not capture the essence of how the branches interact with and control each other. Furthermore, although judicial review forms part of the framework of checks and balances, it is a specific process within the broader concept rather than the definition itself. The primary focus of checks and balances is on the ability of each branch to restrict the power of the others, creating a dynamic balance within