Meaning of Constitutionalism
Government SSS 1 Second Term
WEEK 4
Meaning of Constitutionalism
Performance Objectives
Student should be able to explain:
- Meaning of constitutionalism.
- importance of constitutionalism.
iii. The relationship between constitution and constitutionalism
Constitutionalism
Constitutionalism is "a compound of ideas, attitudes, and patterns of behaviour elaborating the principle that the authority of government derives from and is limited by a body of fundamental law.
Importance of Constitutionalism
1. Constitutionalism proclaims the desirability of the rule of law
2. Constitutionalism serves to define what it is that "grants and guides the legitimate exercise of government authority".
3. Constitutionalism describes and prescribes both the source and the limits of government power derived from fundamental law.
4. Separation of power
5. Sovereignty of the people and democratic government
6. Constitutional review
7. Independent judiciary.
Similarities between Constitution and Constitutionalism
1. Both refer to the limits and features of the system of governance of a country. Constitutionalism would not exist without a constitution, and a constitutional way of governing a country requires limits and boundaries to the central authority.
2. Both influence the actions of both government and population. Besides providing a framework for political and institutional structure, the constitution sets out the main rules that all citizens should respect.
3. Both protect and preserve individual and collective rights, preventing the central government from abusing of its powers and infringing on the citizens’ basic freedoms.
4. Both have evolved and significantly changed during the last few centuries, benefiting from the spread of democratic ideals and becoming key features of the majority of Western counties.