Overview of Article 90 of the Constitution of Pakistan
The Constitution of Pakistan, adopted in 1973, forms the cornerstone of Pakistani governance structure. Of its numerous provisions, Article 90 serves as an essential one defining executive authority within the Federal Government and providing an outline for exercise of this power within the Federation. Key figures such as the President, Prime Minister and Federal Ministers all play vital roles under its provisions and this provision serves as a roadmap for executive power exercised within the Federation.
Article 90 States
90. The Federal Government:
- Subject to the Constitution, the executive authority of the Federation shall be exercised in the name of the President by the Federal Government, consisting of the Prime Minister and the Federal Ministers, which shall act through the Prime Minister, who shall be the chief executive of the Federation.
- In the performance of his functions under the Constitution, the Prime Minister may act either directly or through the Federal Ministers.”
Key Points of Article 90 of the Constitution of Pakistan
- Executive Authority Delegated: The crux of Article 90 lies in the delegation of executive authority from the President to the Federal Government. This delegation is instrumental in ensuring the effective functioning of the executive branch.
- Composition of Federal Government: Per Article 90, the Federal Government is an inter-ministerial partnership of Prime Minister and Federal Ministers who together form an executive structure responsible for carrying out government policies and decisions.
- Role of the Prime Minister: At the core of Article 90 lies the designation of the Prime Minister as CEO of the Federation, giving him or her executive authority on behalf of the President, and playing an instrumental part in governance machinery.
- Flexibility in Functioning: An intriguing aspect of Article 90 is the flexibility it affords to the Prime Minister. The provision allows the Prime Minister to exercise their functions directly or through the Federal Ministers, showcasing adaptability in the execution of executive responsibilities.
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Crux of Article 90 of the Constitution of Pakistan
The crux of Article 90 lies in establishing a structured framework for the exercise of executive authority, thereby fostering efficient governance. By designating the Prime Minister as the chief executive, the article ensures a central figurehead responsible for steering the Federation through the complexities of governance. The inclusion of Federal Ministers in the Federal Government adds a layer of collaboration, emphasizing the collective nature of decision-making within the executive branch.
Article 90 not only defines the roles but also sets the constitutional stage for the interaction between the President and the Federal Government. The delicate balance between direct action by the Prime Minister and delegation to Federal Ministers reflects a nuanced approach, allowing for strategic governance tailored to the needs of the nation.
Conclusion: Article 90 of the Constitution of Pakistan
In conclusion, Article 90 of the Constitution of Pakistan serves as a cornerstone in the edifice of the nation’s governance structure. It intricately defines the landscape of executive authority, designating the Prime Minister as the linchpin of the Federal Government. The collaborative efforts of the Prime Minister and Federal Ministers, as outlined in this article, exemplify the constitutional commitment to effective and collective governance.
As we dissect Article 90, the flexibility it offers in the execution of executive functions becomes apparent, underscoring the adaptability required for responsive governance. This constitutional provision, situated within the broader context of the 1973 Constitution of Pakistan, not only shapes the present but lays the groundwork for the evolving dynamics of the nation’s governance in the future.
