Merits and demerits of the 1999 Constitution - SS2 Government Lesson Note
Merits of the 1999 Constitution: Presidential system include:
- · Stable Presidential System: The 1999 Constitution has provided a stable presidential system of government that has lasted for over two decades.
- · Separation of Powers: The Constitution provides for the separation of powers among the three branches of government, ensuring checks and balances.
- · Fundamental Human Rights: The Constitution includes provisions for the protection of fundamental human rights, such as the right to life, freedom of expression, and freedom of association.
- · Gender Equality: The Constitution includes provisions that promote gender equality and prohibit discrimination on the basis of gender.
- · Local Government Autonomy: The Constitution provides for local government autonomy, allowing for effective governance at the grassroots level.
Demerits of the 1999 Constitution: Presidential system include:
- · Weaknesses in Federalism: The Constitution's federal system of government has been criticized for giving too much power to the central government, which has resulted in the marginalization of some states.
- · Corruption and Lack of Accountability: The Constitution's provision for immunity for certain government officials has been criticized for promoting corruption and lack of accountability.
- · Inadequate Representation: The Constitution's bicameral legislature has been criticized for being too expensive and not adequately representing the people.
- · Ineffective Judiciary: The Constitution's guarantee of judicial independence has not translated into an effective judiciary, as the judiciary has been criticized for being slow, corrupt, and inefficient.
- · Presidential Term Limits: The Constitution's provision for presidential term limits has been criticized for allowing presidents to remain in power for too long, which has resulted in a lack of fresh ideas and perspectives.