(a) Outline any three features of a Written Constitution. (b) Highlight any three reasons for the adoption of a Unitary Constitution.

Answer Details

(a) Three features of a Written Constitution

1. Documented in a single, formal document: The main principles and rules of government are deliberately gathered and written down in one authoritative document.
2. Rigid and difficult to amend: It usually provides a special, more difficult procedure for amendment (such as a two-thirds majority or referendum), so it cannot be changed easily.
3. Supremacy of the constitution: The written constitution is the supreme law of the land, and any law or action inconsistent with it is null and void.
4. Product of deliberate effort: It is normally drawn up at a particular point in time, often by a constituent assembly or conference, and comes into force on a specific date.
5. Guarantees fundamental human rights: It usually contains a clearly entrenched bill of fundamental rights.

(b) Three reasons for the adoption of a Unitary Constitution

1. Small size of the country: A country small in area and population can conveniently be governed from a single centre, making a unitary system suitable.
2. Homogeneous population: Where the people share a common language, culture and outlook, there is little need to divide power, so a unitary system fits.
3. Need for strong central government and unity: A unitary system concentrates power at the centre, giving strong, united and effective leadership and quick decision-making.
4. Economy of administration: It avoids the duplication of governmental structures found in federations and is therefore cheaper to run.