What is the primary purpose of separation of powers?

• A. Promote speed and efficiency in governance.
• B. Increase the power of the executive.
• C. Concentrate power in one branch.
• D. Prevent accumulation of too much power into too few hands.

Answer: (D)

Distributing governmental powers among separate branches is about preventing any one group from amassing too much control. By assigning distinct responsibilities to the legislature, the executive, and the judiciary, and by letting each branch check the others, the system protects freedom and guards against abuse. For example, laws are made by one branch, enforced by another, and interpreted or struck down by a third, with mechanisms like vetoes, overrides, impeachment, and judicial review providing balance. This structure emphasizes restraint and accountability over speed, which is why the aim isn’t to speed up governance, but to prevent power from concentrating in too few hands.