Which system allows for a prime minister to be chosen by the lower house of parliament?

The parliamentary system is characterized by the way in which the executive branch derives its legitimacy and authority from the legislative branch, specifically the lower house of parliament. In this system, the head of government, typically known as the prime minister, is elected by the members of the parliament rather than directly by the public. This close relationship between the legislative and executive branches allows the prime minister to maintain the confidence of the parliament, which is essential for governance. The prime minister’s ability to remain in office is contingent upon retaining majority support from the parliament, thereby creating a more unified and cooperative governing body.

This structure contrasts with other systems. In a presidential system, the president is elected directly by the public and operates independently from the legislative branch. The unitary system refers to the centralization of governmental power in a single national authority, rather than describing the process of electing a prime minister. A confederal system focuses on a union of sovereign states that delegate certain powers to a central authority, which does not involve the election of a prime minister by parliament. Thus, the parliamentary system is the only one among the choices that specifically allows for the election of a prime minister by the lower house of parliament.