Dyarchy

   "Dual rule" or "dual government"; refers to the establishment of a new constitutional system in Burma in 1923 following the general contours of the Montagu-Chelmsford reforms in India. Limited governmental responsibilities were transferred to local nationals while the governor retained control over more vital jurisdictions. It provided for a Legislative Council of 103 members: 58 elected by popular vote from geographical constituencies, 15 elected from communal constituencies (Chinese, Indians, Karens [Kayins], AngloIndians [including Anglo-Burmese]), and 23 nominated ex officio (by virtue of their holding administrative offices) by the governor. Its powers were enhanced compared to the original Legislative Council established in 1897. Under the dyarchy system, the executive function of government was the responsibility of the Executive Council, consisting of the governor; two ministers in charge of "reserved subjects," such as police, finance, labor, and irrigation, who were under the governor's authority; and two ministers responsible for "transferred subjects," such as forestry, education, and health, who were chosen by the Legislative Council. The governor was solely responsible for administration of the Frontier Areas and could veto legislation passed by the Council. Still other areas of responsibility, such as foreign relations, currency, and the civil service, remained under the control of the Indian government in New Delhi and the Secretary of State for India in London. Implementation of the new system aroused the opposition of the General Council of Burmese Associations (GCBA), although a GCBA faction, the Twenty-One Party, chose to cooperate. Turnout for Legislative Council elections held in 1922, 1925, and 1928 was low. The system was changed with the Government of Burma Act of 1935, although in that system the governor still retained control over the most important areas of responsibility.