Features of the Republican Constitution of 1963 (Parliamentary) - SS2 Government Lesson Note

The Republican Constitution of 1963 (Parliamentary) had the following features:

• ·         Parliamentary system of government: The constitution established a parliamentary system of government with a Prime Minister as the head of government and a ceremonial President as the head of state.
• ·         Bicameral legislature: The constitution established a bicameral legislature consisting of a Senate and a House of Representatives. The Senate was made up of 44 members, while the House of Representatives had 312 members.
• ·         Indirect election of President: The President was elected by an Electoral College made up of members of the Senate, House of Representatives, and state houses of assembly.
• ·         Regional autonomy: The constitution allowed for the creation of regions, each with its own legislature and executive, and provided for revenue sharing between the regions and the federal government.
• ·         Fundamental human rights: The constitution guaranteed fundamental human rights, such as freedom of speech, association, and religion.
• ·         Independent judiciary: The constitution established an independent judiciary with a Supreme Court as the highest court of appeal.
• ·         State creation: The constitution provided for the creation of new states, subject to specific conditions, such as a minimum population size and a certain level of economic viability.
• ·         Citizenship: The constitution defined citizenship and provided for the rights and obligations of citizens.
• ·         Public service: The constitution established a federal civil service and provided for the appointment and removal of public officers.
• ·         Amendment: The constitution could be amended by a two-thirds majority vote of the National Assembly.