This book offers in-depth analysis of parliamentary (legislature) development set in a historical context informed by Africa's post 1990s democratic resurgence. In particular, it illustrates how African parliaments are caught between the twin processes of being part of the machinery of government while exercising the function of holding government accountable. The chapters are divided into three parts articulating: a) a contextual analysis of the broader socio-economic and political circumstances within which African Parliaments operate; b) the evolution of African parliamentary systems from colonialism to the present; and c) the relationship between parliament and government (or legislature and executive) with particular reference to political accountability and oversight.