(a) A Republican form of government is one that has the president as the Head of state. He is elected by the people and has a fixed term of office. The office is an elective post and not hereditary, as in a monarchy. In some countries, the president as the head of state performs ceremonial functions but as executive president, he is both Head of State and government e.g. U.S.A.
(b) Essential characteristics of a Republican form of Government:
(i) The Head of state is known as the president and is elected for a fixed term of office.
(ii) Political independence is a must for a Republican state.
(iii) Political leaders can only stay in office for a stipulated term e.g. four or five years.
(iv) The law-makers are entirely elected by the people.
(v) There exists rule of law.
(vi) There is popular sovereignty. The people have the final say in choosing political leaders.
(vii) Everybody is equal before the law.
(viii) There is the independence of Judiciary
(ix) There is free press and freedom of association and of forming political parties.