In presidential democracies, the government is headed by a directly elected president, who is also the ceremonial head of state. In parliamentary democracies, the government is headed by a prime minister and his cabinet, who must enjoy the confidence of parliament, while a president or king acts as the ceremonial head of state. Many newer democracies have chosen an intermediate system. The prime minister and his cabinet are responsible for the day-to-day administration of government through the ministries. But the presidency holds the position of head of state, and has the power to nominate the prime minister, to veto legislation, and to make or approve certain judicial and governmental appointments. By partially dividing executive authority, this intermediate system may help prevent the abuse of power.
