WAEC Government 2013 Theory — Question 3

Model answer

(a) A constitution is the body of fundamental laws, rules and principles by which a country is governed. It contains statements intended to define the relations between the government and the governed, the basic institutional framework of government, and the rights and duties of citizens. (b) Reasons countries use written constitutions include: I. A written constitution allows for easy reference on the part of both government and citizens because the fundamental laws and principles of the state are codified in a single document. II. A written constitution helps citizens to be much more informed about their fundamental human rights, since rights of citizens are clearly stated in the constitution. III. Countries make use of written constitutions because it is readily available and makes it possible for ordinary citizens to compare the acts of the government in order to determine if such acts are constitutional. IV. A written constitution to some extent helps to reduce conflict among the organs and tiers of government, because the functions and powers of each level of government are clearly spelt out by the constitution. V. Since written constitutions are readily available and within the reach of ordinary citizens, it becomes difficult for officials of government to abuse the powers of their office because such acts can be challenged by the citizens in the court of law.