What is the concept of checks and balances?

The concept of checks and balances refers to a fundamental principle in governance that aims to prevent any one branch of government—executive, legislative, or judicial—from gaining excessive power. It ensures that each branch has the ability to limit the powers of the others, creating a system of mutual control. This balances power by requiring cooperation and oversight, making it difficult for any single branch to act unilaterally without the consent or oversight of the others. For example, while the legislative branch can create laws, the executive has the power to veto those laws, and the judicial branch can rule on their constitutionality. This design was implemented by the framers of the Constitution in the United States to protect against tyranny and to ensure a fair and balanced government. By establishing these checks, the system encourages accountability and responsiveness to the needs and rights of citizens.