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Periodical article | Leiden University catalogue | WorldCat |
Title: | The constitution of Namibia: an overview |
Author: | Cottrell, Jill |
Year: | 1991 |
Periodical: | Journal of African Law |
Volume: | 35 |
Issue: | 1-2 |
Pages: | 56-78 |
Language: | English |
Geographic term: | Namibia |
Subjects: | constitutions 1990 |
Abstract: | Namibia finally achieved independence on 21 March 1990. Its Constitution, completed with astonishing speed, does not fall readily into any familiar classification. The basic structure is that of an executive presidency, though with a prime minister. The State is a unitary one, with a quasi-bicameral legislature and a Westminster-style Cabinet. An unusual feature is election (for the National Assembly) on the basis of proportional representation. There is a fairly comprehensive Fundamental Human Rights Chapter, protected against any derogatory amendment, and a chapter on Directive Principles, provision for an Ombudsman, and for public service and judicial service commissions. It is a remarkably feminist constitution: throughout it uses gender-neutral language. These and other provisions of the Constitution of independent Namibia are reviewed in the present article. Notes, ref. |