Question

Define constitution. Analyse its importance in a democracy. (5 marks)

Answer 1

A Constitution is a framework for the functioning of the institutions of a country and the rules of governance of a state. The purpose of the Constitution is as follows:

• It establishes the ideals which the people aspire to achieve and uphold.
• It lays out the type of political, social and economic system that are to be adopted and promoted by the state.
• It provides a set of rules that form the basis of governance and administration of the country and are agreed upon by all communities that live in the country. It also guards against the misuse of power.
• It ensures that a dominant group does not use its power against other people.
• It guarantees certain fundamental rights to all citizens of the state.
• It provides safeguards against decisions that are detrimental to the larger interest of the country.