Outline the basic functions performed by a modern government.
Explanation
Basic functions performed by a modern Government are:
(i) Law- Making: This is one of the major functions of a modern government and the legislature is the organ responsible for this. (ii) Defence of the Country: The armed forces – Army, Airforce, Navy, have as their constitutional role to defend the country from external interference or aggression.
(iii) Maintenance of law and orders: It is the duty of the government to maintain law and order in the society. The Police is involved in the maintenance of law and order.
(iv) Fundamental Human Rights: The government has to guarantee and promote these rights as entrenched in the constitution.
(v) Interpretation of Laws: The judicial arm of government interprets the law of the country, as well as punish the offenders. This organ is also responsible in the maintenance of justice in any modern government.
(vi) Provision of Social infrastructure: The government has to make sure that these infrastructures are in place e.g. good communication network, health, basic education, water, electricity, etc.
(vii) Economic development: Government promotes and equally participates in economic development of the country, e.g, agricultural and industrial development, etc.
(viii) Provision of Jobs: The government should see provision of jobs as one of the essential functions to perform.
(ix) Formulation and execution of policies: Policies are formulated by the government and the civil service executes the policies made.
(x) Budget: The government is involved in deciding the income and expenditure for a particular year in a country.