Government and the Constitution: notes

The Constitution

• Constitution: the supreme law of the country. It sets out how the country is governed and protects rights.
• Zimbabwe adopted a new Constitution in 2013 after a referendum.

Three arms of government

• Executive: carries out the laws and runs the country (the President and Cabinet).
• Legislature: makes the laws (Parliament: the National Assembly and the Senate).
• Judiciary: explains the laws and settles disputes (the courts).

Separation of powers

Each arm has its own job, so that no one person or group holds all the power.

Other key points

• Elections: citizens aged 18 and over who are registered can vote.
• Devolution: sharing some power with provinces and local councils.
• Rule of law: everyone, including leaders, must obey the law.

Common mistake

Parliament makes laws; the courts do not. The courts apply and explain them.