When a state has only two major political parties in the political system, it is said to have the bi-party or the dual party system. In bi¬party system the party which gets majority in the elections, forms the government and the other party assumes the role of opposition party. In bi-party system, there is a distinct polarization of opinion on different issues. Merits of Bi-party System :
Following are the merits of a bi-party system :
1. Bi-party system is the essence of a successful parliamentary democracy. It ensures a strong and stable government.
2. The opposition under the dual-party system is more responsible and dignified.
3. The bi-party system offers a clear-cut alternative to the voters as they have to choose one out of two parties.
4. Formation of governments is simple and easy under the dual-party system.
5. It is easy to fix responsibility for failure of national policy in a bi-party system.
Demerits of the Bi-party System :
1. The bi-party system splits the nation into two irreconcilable camps.
2. Under the bi-party system the majority party in the legislature might have been elected with minority of votes and thus, the minority may rule in the name of majority.
3. The bi-party system undermines the prestige of the legislature and-results to cabinet dictatorship.
4. The bi-party system leads to despotism of the majority which rides rough-shod over the wishes of the minorities.
