Explain the main features of federalism.

(i) There are two or more levels of government.

(ii) Different tiers of government govern the same citizens, but each tier has its own jurisdiction in specific matters of legislation, taxation and administration.

(iii) The jurisdiction of the respective levels or tiers are clearly specified in the constitution.

(iv) The fundamental provisions of the constitution cannot be unilaterally changed by one level of government.

(v) Courts have the power to interpret the constitution and the powers of different levels of government.

(vi) The highest court acts as an umpire if disputes arise between different levels of government in the exercise of their respective powers.

(vii) Sources of revenue for each level of government are clearly specified to ensure its financial autonomy.

(viii) The federal system has dual objectives: to safeguard and promote unity of the country, while at the same time accommodate regional diversity.